But he wanted to justify himself, so he asked Jesus, ‘Who is my neighbour’? And Jesus answered ‘There was a man going down from Jericho to Jerusalem…’”  (see Luke 10:25–37).

Archbishop John McDowell and Archbishop Eamon Martin in a joint statement have described the placing of a replica mosque on top of a bonfire in Moygashel as grossly offensive and urge people to express compassion to neighbours from other religions.

The two Church leaders said: “Jesus tells the story of the Good Samaritan to teach his disciples that they have a duty to those who differ from them in terms of religious belief and cultural tradition. Jesus teaches that people who differ from us are not simply to be tolerated; they are to be respected, cared for and loved.

“The targeting of the Muslim community through crude symbols and threats of violence by sinister forces undermines these Gospel principles of respect and compassion as well as freedom of religion which is a fundamental principle of a democratic society.

“The placement of a replica mosque atop a bonfire is grossly offensive and raises tensions so soon after the unrest that destroyed property and severely impacted the lives of individuals and families. Christians of all traditions would be aghast at the wanton destruction of Christian imagery. Likewise, we should be appalled at the provocative denigration of symbols associated with faiths that are sincerely held by others.

“We urge Christians, and all people of good will, to reflect carefully on their actions which can ignite violence against innocent people, all of whom are made in God’s image and are therefore worthy of respect and compassion. We want to assure our Muslim fellow citizens and those who are living and working here of the goodwill and respect of the majority of people here.”