Episcopal Church commission speaks out against DVD movie "Obsession: Radical Islam's War Against the West."

Diocesan ecumenical officer the Rev. Becky Crites forwarded this statement from the Ecumenical Relations area of The Episcopal Church:

"I thought you might want to be aware of the Standing Commission on Ecumenical and Interreligious Relations recent statement of concern about the movie, "Obsession: Radical Islam's War Against the West." If you "Google" the title you can view a clip on "You Tube" which will give you a flavor of why the Commission thought it was offensive."

--C. Christopher Epting, Bishop, Deputy for Ecumenical and Interfaith Relations

A response to the movie "Obsession"

The Standing Commission on Ecumenical and Interreligious Relations voices its deep concern over the film "Obsession: Radical Islam's War against the West"* and its recent massive distribution of 28 million copies. The mischaracterization of Islam dehumanizes Muslims and ultimately all people of good will.

We acknowledge the right of people to express anger and pain at actions of inequity, injustice and hostility of others against them. Yet we denounce the temptation to violence and demonizing hatred.

In this era of religious and political polarizations, our integrity as people of faith implores us to speak against those who would divide us by fear and who would incite untruths and compels us to stand with those who hold cherished and common beliefs. As Christians, we are mandated not to bear false witness against our neighbors and to love our neighbor as self.

October 9, 2008