As migration rises, Christian-Muslim talks urgent, participants say

Published: 2006-06-23

VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- As more Muslims migrate to predominantly Christian countries and more Christians migrate to countries with a Muslim majority, interreligious dialogue becomes an urgent pastoral, social and political task, concluded participants at a Vatican meeting. On June 22 the Pontifical Council for Migrants and Travelers published conclusions of a May 15-17 meeting that focused on migration to and from predominantly Muslim countries. The council members called on Catholics to welcome Muslim immigrants, "to be open to sharing with them and to knowing more about their culture and religion." At the same time, the council said, Catholics must give witness to their Christian values. The document called for a dialogue based on "spiritual emulation," encouraging Christians and Muslims to be strong in their own faith and to learn from the commitment and discipline of the other.

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