Muslims and Jews at mass send out clear message to evil-doers
It was a breath of fresh air reading the report about Muslims joining mass throughout France and Italy “in a gesture of solidarity following extremist attacks” (“Muslims join Christians in solidarity bid”, August 2).
This long-awaited expression of solidarity, following these horrific attacks that threaten to deepen divisions across Europe and other continents, confirms that the silent majority is no longer irrelevant.
Its total and genuine objection to these indiscriminate and irresponsible acts, committed by an extremely small fanatically brainwashed minority, is a clear rejection of this misrepresentation and tainting of the true, respectful and genuine religion of Islam.
These long-awaited scenes of solidarity from all around France, with Muslims and Jews crowding the front rows of cathedrals attending mass, disarm, in the most effective and powerful way, those who aim to divide us through their alarming acts. Such unity restores our confidence in the integrity of human beings and in their genuine will to coexist peacefully.
It is a loud and clear expression of rejection of those that drive wedges between people of different faiths and even between sects of the same religion. The world’s press must promote such solidarity, if only to affirm the voice and will of the majority and, eventually, silence the evil minority that thrives in dominating the scene and spreading fear and anxiety among the peace-loving elements of our societies.
It is incumbent on all religious leaders to sow the seeds of unity within their congregations and promote tolerance, compassion and understanding towards communities practising other religions within their society.
This, without doubt, will be the best deterrent to minimise the damage of the evil-doers that the world is currently plagued with.
Shalom Levy, Tsim Sha Tsui
