The bottom line is that well wishes and hopes can go only so far. There are fundamental differences that ultimately influence the values ,culture and behavior of Muslims. Until Western leaders come to the realization that they are not “just like us”,policies will remain flawed. For example it is foolish to assume that Western oriented secularists will ever come to dominate the political life or culture in Muslim countries. Even the concept of “peace “ is different. The Westerner equates peace with tolerance, political Islamist equate peace with Muslim dominance and conformity.
The first problem I notice is that Samir is not disagreeing with Pope Francis. He is disagreeing with the catechism, which Francis is merely quoting:
CCC 841 The Church’s relationship with the Muslims. “The plan of salvation also includes those who acknowledge the Creator, in the first place amongst whom are the Muslims; these profess to hold the faith of Abraham, and together with us they adore the one, merciful God, mankind’s judge on the last day.”
Francis’ words are straight out from here. He’s not being a rebel.
Of course, Samir is correct in his criticism, but the problem isn’t the Pope. It’s Roman Catholic teaching.
King James Version (KJV)
15 And he (Jesus) said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.
16 He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned.
It is as simple as that. All the fancy words & rituals are hogwash.
IMO, by these Catholic rules of engagement (appeasement) with muslims, the Pope is failing to follow God's word, & with this failure, dooms all muslims to Hell. The Pope is taking the safe path rather than the difficult path Jesus followed.
Contrast this with the many Christians who risk their lives daily leading muslims to Jesus in the ME. One is a true servant of God, while the other serves exactly what?