Press conference on the sidelines of His Holiness Pope Shenouda’s visit to the Bibliotheca Alexandrina
In this important press meeting, His Holiness Pope Shenouda III answers several sensitive political and intellectual questions concerning wars in the Middle East—especially the war on Iraq and the Palestinian issue—and the relationship between religion and politics in the West. His answers reveal a deep vision combining faith and realism, affirming that religion does not justify wars or aggression, and that the way of peace is both divine and human.
1. Religion does not justify war
His Holiness begins by clarifying that wars are not expressions of the teachings of Moses or Christ but political and military matters unrelated to faith. Christ came with a message of peace, not of conflict or bloodshed. Those who wage wars, he says, do not represent heavenly religions but their own interests and agendas.
2. The tragedy of Palestine
The Pope describes what is happening in Palestine as a multi-faceted tragedy involving killing, destruction, and oppression of the Palestinian people. He denounces the support of powerful nations for these acts and notes that the U.S. stance favors Israel, worsening the suffering of innocents.
He stresses that true and just peace is the only solution, for love among nations cannot be built on injustice or the seizure of others’ land.
3. Zionism and Christianity
The Pope rejects the term “Christian Zionism,” explaining that there is no form of Christianity that carries Zionist ideology, though some Christians have been influenced by political Zionism.
He attributes this to the powerful influence of the Zionist lobby in American media and politics, which shapes public opinion and election outcomes.
He urges the Arab world to build strong media outlets in the West to communicate the truth in English, French, and German instead of speaking only among themselves.
4. Religion and politics in the West
His Holiness affirms that U.S. politics is not guided by Scripture or faith, but by interests—economic and strategic—especially regarding oil and regional control. He says clearly: “Bush does not rely on a verse from the Gospel, nor Sharon on a verse from the Torah; they rely on their aims and military power.”
5. The war on Iraq
The Pope calls for patience until the Arab League’s decision and warns that any military escalation in Iraq will bring devastation across the entire Arab region. He appeals for Arab unity and wisdom, urging that dialogue replace war, and asks for prayers for Iraq and Palestine so that Arab nations may speak with one voice.
6. Appreciation for Egypt and President Mubarak
Pope Shenouda praises President Hosni Mubarak’s efforts in promoting peace, uniting Arab leaders, and preserving regional stability. He recognizes his active diplomatic role internationally and his commitment to preventing wars and protecting nations from destruction.
Spiritual dimension
The Pope concludes by affirming that the Church’s mission is to bear witness to the truth and call for peace, not to participate in political conflicts.
He reminds that Christ said: “Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you.”
Thus, the call for peace is, above all, a sacred Christian calling.
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