France: Bishops wish happy holiday of “Eid-al-Adhar” to Muslims
On November 5, 2011, the Council for Interreligious Relations of the Conference of Bishops of France (CEF) and the National Service for Relations with Islam sent their best wishes to French Muslims on the eve of the feast of the “Eid al-Adha,” in soothing terms in the “spirit of Assisi”:
“In these days as you celebrate the feast of sacrifice, Eid al-Adha, commemorating the gesture of Abraham, Ibrahim, the father in the faith of believing Jews, Christians and Muslims, we would like to send you our best wishes from the Sanctuary of Lourdes, where the bishops met for their fall gathering,” they wrote. And it is “with joy” that they remind the Muslims of France that one week earlier, in many cities of the country, Christian, Jewish and Muslim believers gathered together at the same time when Benedict XVI brought together, at Assisi, the representatives of all religions for a day of prayer and reflection for peace in the world. They see this as “a sign that believers can work together to serve peace and justice, while some spread the idea that they are the cause of violence and war."
The bishops asked for God's help that they may come together to take initiatives to “reduce fear.” They hope that throughout the world the individual rights of freedom of conscience and religion are respected for all. “We pray to God, Lord of the universe and merciful Father of all mankind, that He may convert our hearts and make us, one and all, architects of peace and justice. We implore His blessing on you and your families,” ends this letter signed by Bishop Michel Santier, bishop of Créteil, President of the Council for Interreligious Relations and by Father Christopher Roucou, Director of National Relations with Islam. (Source: apic - DICI No. 245 of 11/25/11)
