Synod turns attention to Iraq

The Synod of Bishops for the Middle East drew attention to Iraq on Tuesday, demanding an end to the conflict.The Synod Fathers gave interventions in the presence of Pope Benedict XVI, and said dialogue is needed for peace and stability in Iraq. Attention was also drawn to the exodus of Christians from the country, with the bishops saying Christians do not want to leave, but need to be able to live in peace and freedom.

The Synod Fathers also spoke of other parts of the region, including Afghanistan, which isn’t technically represented at the Special Session.

The bishops expressed their solidarity with the population of the country, which is suffering many hardships. They also recalled the responsibility of Western Powers in the region, especially those that have made historic errors in the Middle East.

The Synod also reaffirmed the collaboration between the Churches of the Middle East and the Maghreb, that is the region of North Africa.

The bishops emphasized the importance of the media, which is necessary for spreading the meaning of citizenship, equality, and the acceptance of diversity, but which must also avoid manipulating people and giving fuel for extremism.

Other topics discussed included Muslim-Christian dialogue, the role of Catholic education in the region, and the value of the new ecclesial movements and communities.

The bishops also made some concrete suggestions, including the establishment of a board of interreligious dialogue for the Middle East, streamline procedures for the election of patriarchs, and the creation of a ready contingent of “priests without borders”, who can be sent to the region to help wherever and however needed.