The members of the Episcopal Commission for Interfaith Dialogue of the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops wish to express their concern about acts of violence directed towards Muslim people or institutions in the aftermath of the September 11 terrorist attacks in the United States. In light of recent media reports of an increase in incidents of hate crimes, we urge members of the Catholic Church in Canada to refrain from directing any feelings of anger at the peoples of any particular nation or faith community.

At this tragic moment in our history, it is all the more important to reaffirm the respect that Catholics hold towards Islam and its adherents. The Commission deeply deplores any crimes of hate directed towards mosques, or toward Arab people whether Muslim or Christian. These actions can only be described as un-Christian.

It is our sincere hope and prayer that from the terrible events of the past days there would emerge a renewed commitment to a world of peace, justice, and mutual respect.

Bishop Jean-Louis Plouffe
Chair
Commission for Interfaith Dialogue