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Statement Concerning the Release of a Film Defaming the Prophet Mohammed
The Rt. Rev. Pierre Whalon, Bishop in charge of the Convocation of Episcopal Churches in Europe, has made the following statement concerning the release of a film defaming the Prophet Mohammed:
All the faithful of our churches in Europe join me in condemning in the strongest possible terms the release of a "film" defaming the Prophet Mohammed, peace be to him. This crude bit of anti-Islam propaganda is nothing more than hate speech, and in France and several other European countries the producers would be facing charges. In the United States, it is famously illegal to cry "fire" in a crowded theater - freedom of speech does not cover every expression.
The real purpose of this "film" seems to be to inflame Christians against Muslims in general by presenting hateful lies as fact. By depicting the Prophet in the worst possible terms, it also seems to have been created in the hope of inciting riots by angry Muslims. Sadly, this is its only success. Those who planned and created this propaganda will have much to answer for when they come before the judgment seat of God.
As a signatory to the Call and Commitment to Action of the Christian-Muslim Summits, I ask religious leaders to continue to work together for calm, especially in those nations where Christians are a vulnerable minority. While the murders of diplomats and attacks on embassies may well have been instigated by extremist organizations, they bring dishonor on all those who participate in them.
We must all continue to work to defeat the attempts of extremists of every religion to create fear, hatred and violence. Only love can cast out fear.
May I suggest a prayer for people of good will to use:
O God, who is the creator of us all, we pray for peace and mutual understanding among your children. Lead us, Christians and Muslims, from prejudice to truth; deliver us all from hatred, cruelty, and revenge; and in your good time enable us all to stand reconciled before you. Amen.
September 17, 2012
Paris, France
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