EKD Press Releases

Bishop condemns threatened Koran burning

Martin Schindehütte: "Incompatible with Christian witness"

September 8, 2010

Bishop Martin Schindehütte, head of the Department for Ecumenical Relations and Ministries Abroad of the Evangelical Church in Germany (EKD), sharply criticized the announcement by a group of Christians in the USA that they were going to burn a copy of the Koran on 11 September 2010. The announcement was an "intolerable provocation", said Schindehütte [last week] in Hanover, Germany. The activists reportedly belong to the Dove World Outreach Center in Gainesville, Florida.

According to the bishop, the EKD distances itself most strongly from such provocative actions, which are not compatible with Christian witness and in no way contribute to resolving problems and building trust. Precisely at the end of the fasting month of Ramadan, celebrated by Muslims all over the world, such an action would not enhance understanding but give new impetus to radical positions and reactions, he added. He is convinced that, with clear reference to their own testimony, Christians are committed to living as good neighbors with Muslims and contributing to peace-building.
 
In a country like the USA, that sets great store by freedom of religious belief due to its history, the fundamental scriptures of other religions should be treated with respect, stated Bishop Schindehütte.

Hanover, September 8, 2010
EKD Press Office
Reinhard Mawick