Fr. Lombardi on Libya: Respect for religion essential to peace
(Vatican Radio) – Holy See Press Office director, Fr. Federico Lombardi released
a statement to journalists Wednesday following the killing of Washington's ambassador
to Libya J. Christopher Stevens. Ambassador Stevens was killed in a mob attack at
a U.S. Consulate, fuelled by anger over a film mocking Islam:
“Profound
respect for the beliefs, texts, outstanding figures and symbols of the various religions
is an essential precondition for the peaceful coexistence of peoples.
The
serious consequences of unjustified offence and provocations against the sensibilities
of Muslim believers are once again evident in these days, as we see the reactions
they arouse, sometimes with tragic results, which in their turn nourish tension and
hatred, unleashing unacceptable violence.
The message of dialogue and respect
for all believers of different religions, which the Holy Father is preparing to
carry with him on his forthcoming trip to Lebanon, indicates the path that everyone
should follow in order to construct shared and peaceful coexistence of religions and peoples”.