Pope urges Afghan officials to drop charges against Christian

Published: 2006-03-27

VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- Pope Benedict XVI has urged Afghan authorities to drop charges against a man who faces possible execution for converting to Christianity. A Vatican telegram March 25 to Afghan President Hamid Karzai said the pope's appeal was inspired by "profound human compassion" and by "the firm belief in the dignity of human life and respect for every person's freedom of conscience and religion." Abdul Rahman, 41, was jailed after declaring his conversion to police officers. He reportedly became a Christian several years ago, after working for a Christian aid agency in Pakistan. Afghanistan's Supreme Court said Rahman could face the death penalty unless he reverts to Islam, prompting a worldwide outcry. On March 26, Afghan civil authorities appeared to defuse the situation when they ordered a mental evaluation for Rahman and suspended the case. The telegram on behalf of the pope was signed by Cardinal Angelo Sodano, Vatican secretary of state.

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