A new book aimed at the catechumens of Muslim faith was presented in Bonn today. The book was realised by the German Bishops’ Conference (DBK). According to the bishops, the decision taken by a Muslim to convert to the Christian faith “is an expression of a free choice of conscience which must be respected”. According to the figures released by the DBK, some 150 people ask to join the Catholic Church every year, which account for about 4% of all adults to be baptised. Nevertheless, the passage from Islam to Christianity can be dangerous. “Even in Germany, those who take such a decision put their life at risk”, explains the book. The bishops advise those people who are in charge of pastoral care to “take a sensible approach with Muslim catechumens” and to “provide them with an accurate preparation, which must not be too short. Guiding these persons on the path to baptism represents a particular challenge”. “In no case, however, the desire to change religion must be linked to social or material advantages”. The bishops are stressing the importance to highlight in the preparation for baptism the value attributed by the Catholic Church to the Muslim faith”, for “the previous religious life can enrich their new faith”.

© SIR - sept 14 2009