POPE FRANCIS ADDRESSES RELIGIOUS LEADERS IN TURKEY

Pope Francis:"

Good relations and dialogue between religious leaders have, in fact, acquired great importance.  They represent a clear message addressed to their respective communities which demonstrates that mutual respect and friendship are possible, notwithstanding differences. 

As religious leaders, we are obliged to denounce all violations against human dignity and human rights.  Human life, a gift of God the Creator, possesses a sacred character.  As such, any violence which seeks religious justification warrants the strongest condemnation because the Omnipotent is the God of life and peace.  The world expects those who claim to adore God to be men and women of peace who are capable of living as brothers and sisters, regardless of ethnic, religious, cultural or ideological differences".