The Russian Orthodox Church has declared that it fully supports Russian efforts to track down and hunt down ISIS in Syria, claiming that it is vital that the Christians of the Middle East remain safe from the threat of terrorism. This is a very surprising statement to hear from a religious institution, albeit a very welcome one.
Science and Religion: Do We Stand Together Against Terrorism?
While the war on terror requires technology and plenty of science, it also requires faith. Be it Darwin, Einstein or Stephen Hawking, faith is a vital factor against fear, and it is necessary for enlightenment. This kind of statement from a church means that Russia stands with the people who flee the terror that ISIS has instilled upon its own people, claiming jihad as if it were an imposing power to all. Science and Religion should have to join forces to fight back, and this kind of encouragement boosts people to go forward and encourages them to fight on.
The Fight Against ISIS Cannot Be Fought Alone
As much as weapons and technology can bring, the most important factor in the fight against ISIS is people. People who believe in the potential in other people, and those who can draw the line between fanatics and true faith. This move by the Russian Orthodox Church shows humility, maturity and solidarity, and it could surely boost Russian morale against this terrible fight against ISIS.
