HIS HOLINESS ARAM I: WE NEED TO ADAPT RELIGION TO NEW TIMES

ArmRadio.am
17.01.2007 13:55

This morning His Holiness Aram I, the Catholicos of the Great
House of Cilicia, met with the representatives of World Council of
Islam-Christian Cooperation lead by its General Secretary Dr. Yousef
Farran.

The focus of the meeting was the role of religion in general and the
Christian-Muslim dialogue in particular. His Holiness Aram I considered
religion as " a force in society, and the nature and scope of its
role are defined differently by religions in different times and in
different contexts". His Holiness warned about "misuse of religious
feelings and values". It is vitally important, said Aram I, that
"religions as a force be used for the transformation and progress
of society, and not as a means to generate violence and presume
political interests".

Catholicos Aram I also stressed the need for the religion to
adapt itself to new times. "Religion has its traditions, values
and principles. They need to become more relevant and open to new
conditions and realities. Adapting religion to new times, by keeping
the substance of its teachings, in my judgment, is essential for the
inner renewal of religion".

His Holiness also discussed with his visitors a number of matters
pertaining to Christian-Muslim dialogue. He welcomed the growing
commitment of Christians and Muslims throughout the world to engage
in process of seeking common values and working together by respecting
each others values and traditions.