Statement Against Violent Rage
I have followed with great distress and sorrow the growing violence throughout the predominately Muslim world in response to an inflammatory anti-Islamic film. As the trailer of the film, which is viral, makes clear, this film was made to incite the exact violent reaction that has now ensued. As a Christian and spiritual leader, I am stunned by this wanton denigration of the Prophet and the Qur'an. I can only imagine my own outrage if a film was produced that similarly vilified Jesus and the Bible. In solidarity with our Muslim brothers and sisters, I condemn this misguided and damaging piece.
At the same time, as one who follows the Prince of Peace, I must likewise join most of the Muslim spiritual leaders around the planet and condemn the violent reaction to this film. I can understand the anger that faithful Muslims feel. I cannot fathom the justification for the violent rage of the mob.
In the United States and most western countries, even this horrid and damaging film is protected because we value freedom of expression. Freedom is also valued in Muslim countries as evidenced by the so-called Arab spring. However, we also value responsibility and respect. Ironically, those who created the film and those who killed and harmed innocents with the film as their excuse have a lot in common. They do not accept responsibility and they do not respect the dignity of other human beings. Living in a complex, inter-religious world, we will always face clashes of values, like this clash between freedom and responsibility.
The Christian response to this season of sorrow is first to pray for all those involved, the misguided film creators, those offended by it, the perpetrators of violence and their victims. We should also pray that the political leaders of the world will respond with wisdom and care, I ask the people of our diocese to thus pray. In that spirit, I bid you pray the collect for the whole human family.
O God, you made us in your own image and redeemed us through Jesus your son: look with compassion on the whole human family; take away the arrogance and hatred which infect our hearts; break down the walls that separate us; unite us in bonds of love; and work through our struggle and confusion to accomplish your purposes on earth; that, in your good time, all nations and races may serve you in harmony around your heavenly throne; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Book of Common Prayer, page 815
The Rt. Rev. James R. Mathes
