Church leaders condemn placement of replica mosque on Loyalist bonfire

Archbishop Eamon Martin and Archbishop John McDowell Image CCO

Source: Irish Catholic Media Office

Leaders of the Catholic Church and Church of Ireland have condemned the placement of a replica mosque on a Loyalist bonfire pyre in Moygashel, Co Tyrone today. Anti-Islam and anti-migrant signs were also placed on top of the fire, which has prompted widespread condemnation for inciting hatred.

Archbishop Eamon Martin, Catholic Archbishop of Armagh and Primate of All Ireland and Archbishop John McDowell, Church of Ireland Archbishop of Armagh and Primate of All Ireland said in a joint statement:

"But he wanted to justify himself, so he asked Jesus 'Who is my neighbour'? And Jesus answered 'There was a man going down from Jericho to Jerusalem…'" (Luke 10:25-37)

"Jesus tells the story of the Good Samaritan to teach his disciples that they have a duty to those who differ from them in terms of religious belief and cultural tradition. Jesus teaches that people who differ from us are not simply to be tolerated; they are to be respected, cared for and loved.

"The targeting of the Muslim community through crude symbols and threats of violence by sinister forces undermines these Gospel principles of respect and compassion as well as freedom of religion which is a fundamental principle of a democratic society.

"The placement of a replica mosque atop a bonfire is grossly offensive and raises tensions so soon after the unrest that destroyed property and severely impacted the lives of individuals and families. Christians of all traditions would be aghast at the wanton destruction of Christian imagery. Likewise, we should be appalled at the provocative denigration of symbols associated with faiths that are sincerely held by others.

"We urge Christians, and all people of good will, to reflect carefully on their actions which can ignite violence against innocent people, all of whom are made in God's image and are therefore worthy of respect and compassion. We want to assure our Muslim fellow citizens and those who are living and working here of the goodwill and respect of the majority of people here."

A 56-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of the use or display of threatening, abusive, or insulting material and remains in custody, Police Service of Northern Ireland said.

Bonfires are traditionally lit in Northern Ireland during July 12th celebrations, which commemorate the Battle of the Boyne in 1690 when Protestant King William III - or William of Orange - defeated Catholic King James II.