Cardinal, imams show mutual respect, vow to continue dialogue

Published: 2006-10-04

DEARBORN, Mich. (CNS) -- When Detroit Cardinal Adam J. Maida and Detroit Auxiliary Bishop Francis R. Reiss, along with seven Muslim imams and eight prominent Muslim laymen, emerged from a one-hour meeting Sept. 28, it was to give a message of mutual respect and solidarity in their commitment to continued dialogue. The meeting, held at the request of local Muslim leaders in the wake of controversy following a speech made by Pope Benedict XVI during his recent trip to Germany, brought the Christian and Muslim leaders together at the Islamic Center of America in Dearborn. "I am here to reaffirm, strengthen and renew the long-standing positive rapport we have enjoyed over the years," Cardinal Maida said at the media briefing following the closed-door meeting. "Our meeting here today should not be seen solely as a reaction to the events surrounding Pope Benedict's remarks. Rather, it is one more opportunity to affirm our friendship and commitment to dialogue," the cardinal said.

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