Do not demonise Islam, says Carey
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.THE ARCHBISHOP of Canterbury urged Christians and Muslims yesterday to avoid "demonising" one another and instead to focus on working for the common good.
Dr George Carey, who is on an eight-day visit to the Middle East, became the first Archbishop of Canterbury to address the 15,000 worshippers before Friday prayers at Abu Nour Mosque, the largest mosque in Damascus.
He began with the words: "Salaam aleikum! Peace be with you all!" before going on to say: "Sadly, when we look at the history of the world all too often we find it littered with the remains of conflicts between Christians and Muslims. This has led to a culture of distrust and to the tendency for each of us to demonise the other."
Such "demonising" ignored the great contribution both faiths can make to the world, he added. "The influence of our faiths, the strength of our worship, the enduring force of our traditions and the commitment to family life and the lives of our communities gives us a duty and a remakable opportunity to make a significant contribution to the human family and its future," he said.
Dr Carey warned against "aggressive proselytism". Both Christianity and Islam were missionary religions, a fact that could not be disguised nor denied, he said.
"But, despite all the inherent risks in this recognition, there is no reason why it should lead us towards conflict. Rather, it should instil in us a sense of respect, a respect for such enthusiasm and devotion of faith," Dr Carey said.
He hoped his presence at the mosque before Friday prayers "will be seen by Muslims everywhere as my commitment to a dialogue based on friendship, integrity and honesty - and above all respect between the members of both our faiths".
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments