The Council of Islamic Organizations of Greater Chicago (CIOGC) condemns the bombings of two Coptic churches in Egypt and expresses condolences and heartfelt concern for the victims of these despicable attacks.
At least 44 people have been killed with many more wounded in the bombings that occurred on Palm Sunday, an important day on the Christian calendar. While ISIS claims responsibility for the attacks in Tanta and Alexandria, the Egyptian government is investigating.
“These attacks against the Coptic churches are an attack against all people of faith and houses of worship. We will not allow terror and violence to break our faith or unity with our Christian brothers and sisters.” said Dr. Bassam Osman, Chair of CIOGC. “Muslims and Christians will come together stronger and more united against these reprehensible attacks.”
“These horrific attacks targeting Egyptian civilians at places of worship are to be condemned as going against universal humanitarian morals and all that our faith stands for. We tender our deepest condolences to our friends in the Orthodox Christian community across Chicago and elsewhere. We stand with you in these moments of deep loss and grief. ” said Kareem M. Irfan, former CIOGC Chair, current chair of the CIOGC Interfaith Committee, and former president of the Council of Religious Leaders of Metropolitan Chicago (CRLMC).
Photo Credit: REUTERS/Mohamed Abd El Ghany