A word on new global developments and their impact on national unity – Dar Al-Ahram Foundation

His Holiness Pope Shenouda III speaks about the importance of national unity and solidarity among the children of the homeland in facing contemporary challenges, especially the phenomenon of terrorism and its social and economic effects. He explains that Egypt maintains a wise and coherent national stance and that love and affection between Christians and Muslims is an important factor in strengthening this cohesion.

Spiritual and educational dimension (from a Coptic Orthodox faith perspective)

• His Holiness Pope Shenouda III affirms the value of love and mutual respect between religions, and warns that religion does not justify violence nor approve of shedding the blood of innocents.

• He stresses the duty of clergy and spiritual leaders to educate people and to fight the religious misguidance that justifies terrorism.

• He calls for the confrontation to be political, security-related, educational, and spiritual at the same time, while respecting the principles of justice and mercy.

Practical points and recommendations

• Comprehensive awareness in schools, universities, and religious institutions, monitoring published ideas and confronting them with argument and knowledge.

• A responsible media role to avoid spreading panic and misleading information, and to clarify the distinctions between terrorism and war.

• Prudent security measures to protect institutions and citizens without causing excessive fear.

• Meetings and national and religious conferences to reinforce human principles and values of interfaith dialogue, and symbolic visits by religious figures to spread sound thought.

• The call to hold prayers and national conferences if necessary to strengthen social cohesion.

Short spiritual conclusion

The solution lies in a blend of wisdom, Coptic Orthodox Christian love, and joint work with our Muslim brothers for Egypt first, and a society governed by security, justice, and mercy.

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