c. 2004 Religion News Service

(UNDATED) Religious leaders worldwide reacted to the death of Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat, who died Thursday in Paris:

“Israel and her supporters would welcome Palestinian leaders who embrace this opportunity to commit to an end to terror and a genuine return to the path of peace.”

_ Marie Abrams, chair of the Jewish Council for Public Affairs, with offices in New York City and Washington

“President Arafat was the embodiment of the Palestinian struggle for justice and freedom. His death should prompt all parties to the Middle East conflict to reinvigorate any efforts that could lead to peace with justice in the region. In particular, the United States must reexamine its Middle Eastern policy and refocus on helping to free the Palestinian people from Israeli occupation.”

_ statement of the Council on American-Islamic Relations, based in Washington

“Too often he became a convenient scapegoat or was demonized not only by political opponents, but also in popular culture. History, we are confident, will present a far more balanced picture and preserve his legacy as a leader who loved and was loved by his people for the sacrifices they collectively made in their determination to return to Palestine.”

_ statement from the Arab American Institute, based in Washington

“On his long road as a leader, Yasser Arafat came to the recognition that true justice embraces peace, security and hope for both Palestinians and Israelis. His path has now ended, amid the rocks and thorns of occupation, at a distance from the goal he sought. As he is laid to rest the world will see _ from the location of his final resting place _ how far the Palestinian people must still travel together.”

_ Peter Weiderud of the World Council of Churches, in a letter to Palestinian Prime Minister Ahmad Qurei.

“Yasser Arafat’s death is a seismic event in both Palestinian and Israeli history, the consequences of which are unpredictable. However, opportunity as well as risk invariably accompanies such a change.”

_ Bishop Mark Hanson, president, and Rev. Dr Ishmael Noko, general secretary, The Lutheran World Federation, based in Geneva.

“While entrusting his soul into the hands of the almighty and merciful God, the Holy Father prays to the Prince of Peace that the star of harmony will soon shine on the Holy Land and that the two peoples dwelling therein may live reconciled among themselves as two independent and sovereign states.”

_ Vatican statement on behalf of Pope John Paul II

“With Arafat’s death occurring against the backdrop of Prime Minister Ariel Sharon’s disengagement plan, the Palestinian people and the Arab world have an obligation to use this moment to help establish such a responsible leadership.”

_ statement of United Jewish Communities, based in New York City

“While keeping the Palestinian issue at the center of the world’s attention for nearly 50 years, Arafat chose terror and jihad over compromise and peace. He could have been the leader of a state, and he chose instead to be the head of a violent and corrupt gang.”

_ Rabbi Eric H. Yoffie, president of the Union for Reform Judaism, based in New York City

“Yasser Arafat has given his life to the cause of the Palestinian people and will be remembered for his perseverance and resolve in the face of so many challenges and set-backs.”

_ The Rev. Barry Morgan, (Anglican) Archbishop of Wales

MO/JM END RNS