Religious leaders in Argentina sign joint declaration against terrorism

Buenos Aires, Argentina, Aug 9, 2005 / 22:00 pm

Representatives in Buenos Aires of the three monotheistic religions signed a joint declaration on Tuesday rejecting “all forms of fundamentalism and terrorism.”

The historic statement was signed by Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio of Buenos Aires, Jewish leaders León Cohen Bello and Luis Grynwald, and Omar Helal Massud of the Islamic Center of Argentina.

“We desire to work for the common good and to condemn everything that causes terror and destruction.  We are against all terrorism, both imperial and structural,” Cardinal Bergoglio stated.

Cohen Bello said the act was “an exercise in militancy for life,” while Massud noted that “Islam is not terrorism; it is a religion of peace.”

“All of the religious groups present in the city of Buenos Aires desire to live this way.  I am thankful and honored by your presence here.  This place is home to you all,” Cardinal Bergoglio told the other religious leaders gathered for the ceremony.

The document states that “as another sign of our religious vocation and commitment to the highest values of the human spirit related to peace,” the signers ratify “our will to reject any form of terrorism and fundamentalism.”

Terrorism “is condemned by all monotheistic teachings, which in their concepts and essential practices, strive to create a world of harmony,” the statement reads.  “The religious vision of life tends to liberate man while terrorism makes him a slave to fear,” it concludes.