“Had God not repelled ˹the aggression of˺ some people by means of others, destruction would have surely claimed monasteries, churches, synagogues, and mosques in which God’s Name is often mentioned. God will certainly help those who stand up for Him. God is truly All-Powerful, Almighty.” [The Clear Quran 22:40]
The Canadian Council of Imams would like to express our deep sadness regarding the news of the devastating fire at the Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris. This incident also coincided with a similar fire in the same evening on the roof of Marwani Quarters in al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem, the third most sacred site for Muslims.
The fires at these historic and significant world heritage sites impact many people around the world.
This incident in France is especially saddening in this time as the secular climate continues to grow in hostility towards communities of faith.
We extend our consolations to the Roman Catholic and Muslim communities in Canada and around the world, and we pray that God calms the hearts of all people who grieve these significant losses.