Muslims and Christians Unite Against the Tide of Terrorism to Advance Peace in Nigeria
Christians and Muslims are uniting in Nigeria to reject the violence advanced by the terrorist group, Boko Haram. Last Friday (30 January 2012), this violent group killed at least 184 people and raised the specter of an escalating spiral of violence. Yesterday, police found large numbers of explosives, including ten cars packed with explosives, linked to the group. It is the shared view of many Nigerian Muslims and Christians that Boko Haram grossly distorts the Islamic religion by claiming it as a justification for its violent terrorism.
Summary: The Marrakesh Declaration and Commitments to Action
We—religious leaders from across the Middle East–North Africa (MENA) region—have gathered together in Marrakesh, Morocco, 15-16 November 2011, as partners in advancing the common good in our region. We gather during a time of momentous change. We urge all to eschew violence. In particular, we are concerned that misunderstanding among our communities can all too easily be exploited to provoke intolerance or hostility in the name of religion. We deplore and condemn this misuse of our religions. Our religions are for peace.
Dr. Vendley's Speech in Behethlem on 14 December
Dr. William F. Vendley
Secretary General
I. Greetings.
Esteemed Palestinian religious leaders and representatives, we—Dr. Din Syamsuddin, Dr. Ceric’s representative, and my staff colleages Rev Kyoichi Sugino and Ms. Deepika Singh—are deeply pleased and honored to be with you here today.
