Cardinal Sodano Calls for New Era Without Hatred

In Aftermath of London Attacks

The challenge that follows the deadly terrorist bombings in London is to overcome hatred and prevent the clash of civilizations, says the Vatican secretary of state.

"From Rome, from the banks of the Tiber, we launch this appeal to all men of good will of all religions," said Cardinal Angelo Sodano.

"We must put an end to this clash of civilizations; we must inaugurate a new era for our humanity," he insisted. "This hatred must come to an end."

Speaking Thursday to Italian television, Cardinal Sodano said that Benedict XVI "received this painful news with profound sadness, as we all did here in the Vatican. He sent a telegram of sympathy immediately for the numerous victims."

"What worries all of us Catholics most, and here in the Holy See as well, is the hatred which is behind this massacre, these cruel crimes," said the cardinal.

Asked if the use of arms is legitimate in response to such events, the cardinal responded: "States have specific duties to defend their citizens."

"But, as men of the Church," he added, "we have the duty to remind people of the path of dialogue, of understanding and meeting, because in all human hearts there is the aspiration for good. Of course, in addition to praying, we must work."

ZEN - Zenit (8. juli 2005)