Imams and Catholic priests discussed social problems in Vienna

The first meeting of Catholic priests and Islamic imams took place in Vienna. In the theological discussion and discussion of a wide range of social problems, 18 priests and 17 imams participated.

According to the priest Martin Rupprecht, the initiator of the first Catholic and Islamic relations in Austria, the event was held "in the atmosphere of mutual respect, openness and honest dialogue," RIA Novosti reports with reference to the Kai agency.

In particular, the discussion of the central theological topics of Christianity and Islam, based on the texts of the Bible and the Qur'an, passed calmly and balanced. During the meeting, participants emphasized the need for mutual respect for communities that believe in a single god.

According to Rupprecht, who is responsible for the Vienna Catholic Archbishop for dialogue with Islam, his initiative found support among the leadership of the Turkish Islamic Union, which is the most influential organization among Austrian Muslims. The leaders of the Turkish Islamic Union personally welcomed the participants in the meeting of Catholic priests and imams.

Recall that in September of this year, Austrian President Hinz Fisher called on compatriots not to subject the Muslims living in the country of discrimination. He stated this, speaking at the ceremony dedicated to the end of the Eid Al-Fiter holiday, held in the largest mosque in Austria.

"In Austria, Islam is one of the main religions, moreover, its influence is growing," said the Austrian leader.

At the same time, he emphasized that Muslims living in Austria should respect the laws of this country. “You must also believe that you can achieve respect for people,” Hainz Fisher noted, referring to the Muslims present in the mosque.

The president emphasized that Austria adheres to the principle of separation of religion from the state, but this does not mean that Austria and Islam are alien to each other.

In a response, the head of the Muslim community of Austria urged everyone to attach strength to "ending with hostility and stretching out the hand of friendship."