Christian Woman Promptly Removed from National Cathedral When She Speaks Out Against Muslim Service
The National Cathedral in Washington, D.C., an Episcopal church that is frequently the site of state funerals and other official occasions, has hosted Muslim attendees at interfaith events in the past. Recently, however, it held the first actual Muslim prayer service.
An incensed Christian woman spoke out loudly in protest, and was ushered out of the building. The incident has given rise to increased discussion about the role of the Islamic faith in American life.
2014-11-25_17-45-42The purpose of the service was to foster an improved relationship between Muslims and Christians while condemning terrorism. It was hosted by Ebrahim Rasool, the South African ambassador to the United States. Rasool spoke during the service, asking Muslims and Christians to work together in fighting extremism.
As the Muslim prayer began, a woman stood and shouted: “Jesus Christ died on that cross over there! He is the reason why we are to worship only him. Jesus Christ is our lord and savior!”
She also said Muslims should be worshiping in their own mosques, of which there are many in the United States.
IJReview, which covered the story, says:
The carpets were arrayed diagonally in the transept, to the side of the sanctuary, so that worshipers can face in the direction of Mecca without seeing crosses or Christian icons. Muslims are not supposed to pray in view of sacred symbols alien to their faith.
In the video above, which was posted on YouTube.com, text has been added saying the removal of the woman is based on Sharia law. Other observers cite the right of the organizers to maintain order and respect.
Americans are increasingly speaking out against the Muslim faith, arguing that huge numbers of Muslims follow radical Islam and want to destroy the United States. The majority of American Muslims want their fellow countrymen to know Islam is a peaceful religion that is being corrupted by Islamist extremism.
In most Arab countries, a joint Christian-Muslim worship service would not be countenanced, but in the United States, freedom of religion supports the right of all people to practice their faiths without restriction. As American troops continue to fight Islamic radicals in the Middle East, and ISIS radicals continue to recruit followers from North America, this controversy seems likely to expand.
Poster Comment:
George Washington, wearing full Masonic Regalia, held up a copy of the Koran and said, "It is important that we keep these people out."