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Presbyterian Moderator Dr John Dixon has condemned the overnight burnings of Roman Catholic churches. The Moderator conveyed his sympathy directly to Bishop Patrick Walsh when he met him this morning (Thursday 2 July) as he visited St James Church outside Crumlin, one of the churches attacked.
After viewing the devastated building Dr Dixon said, 'I condemn without reservation the burning last night of Roman Catholic Churches throughout the province. I extend sympathy to all whose churches have been attacked and to the community they represent.
'Freedom of religion is a cornerstone of our society and tolerance of differing views essential for the wellbeing of community life. Churches are treated as places deserving of special respect and care because of their particular association with the worship of God. There is therefore anger and sadness when these buildings are burned.
'In these tense days I call upon all who profess the love of God to show it practically by active love for their neighbour. This can best be done by avoiding words that inflame and actions that appear to condone wrong attitudes or actions.
'I urge all with any information to make it available to the police so that evil doers may be brought to justice and to reach out in practical ways to reassure and encourage people who are distressed.
'This is a time for God's people to make a distinctive difference where they live. Let us love not in word only but also in deeds and actions.'
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