"The Only Authentic Response," Orthodox Abbot Says

ASSISI, Italy, JAN. 25, 2002 (Zenit.org).- The Day of Prayer for Peace was "the only authentic response of religions" to the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, says an Russian Orthodox abbot.

"The whole world must pray for peace," Abbot Barsanuphe told ZENIT. A representative in France of the Orthodox Patriarchate of Moscow, he was in Assisi on Thursday.

"In this way, religions give a very strong, 'exemplary' sign," the abbot said. "They give the example of listening, mutual respect, concord and friendship. It is an example for states, politicians and the rest of civil society."

"The organization of this meeting called by the Pope, after Sept. 11, is the only authentic response of religions," he added. "It was a wise move on the part of the Roman Pope to take this initiative for other religions."

Zenit - The World Seen From Rome
25. januar 2002