Cardinal Sandri on Egypt: anti-Christian violence unacceptable

(Vatican Radio) The Prefect of the Congregation for Eastern Churches, Cardinal Leonardo Sandri, has condemned violence against Christians in Egypt, and called for national reconciliation, justice and lasting peace through dialogue. Speaking in French to Vatican Radio, Cardinal Sandri said, “The destruction of Christian churches is unacceptable.” Cardinal Sandri went on to say, “The revival of the country must take place in respect of the human person, in the mutual respect of all religions, in respect for religious freedom.” Cardinal Sandri said that faith or religion may not ever be used to justify violence. “We have to think that God's commandment to love one another is valid for everyone,” he said, “both Muslims and Christians.” Since the ouster of President Mohammad Morsi, there have been dozens of attacks against Christians and their holy sites. Pope Francis has called for an end to the violence and a return to civility, as has Coptic Pope Tawadros II of Alexandria. Listen: