Dutch churches condemn politician's anti-Islamic film

Published: 2008-04-02

OXFORD, England (CNS) -- Churches in the Netherlands have condemned a Dutch politician's anti-Islamic film. "The image this film conjures up is one-sided and provocative," the Dutch Council of Churches said in a statement March 28. "Our churches believe society cannot be directed by fear," the statement said. "If problems exist between the various groups ... they should be settled only through joint dialogue." The churches were reacting to "Fitna" ("Strife") by Freedom Party leader Geert Wilders. The film was posted on the Internet March 27 after Dutch television channels refused to screen it. It said criticism of religious customs should be permitted in the form of "mutual conversation," but added that the film contained an "unmerited caricature of Islam." "Our churches know the horror of violence and reject terrorism in any form," said the council, whose 12 member churches include Catholics, Protestants, Anglicans and Orthodox. "But they also believe a deep analysis of the current political situation in various countries should prompt greater dialogue with Islam. Priority should be given to solidarity, not hostility, between nations," the council said.

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