Evangelist's views on Islam draw critics in Winnipeg
Last Updated: Sunday, October 22, 2006 | 11:28 AM CT
CBC News
Controversy over past comments about Islam followed U.S. evangelist Franklin Graham to Winnipeg, where he wrapped up a three-day Christian festival on Sunday.
Graham has been quoted calling on the U.S. "to use weapons of mass destruction if need be" and referring to Islam as "a very evil and a very wicked religion."
Outside the MTS Centre, other Christians have been trying to remind people they don't share Graham's message.
A group called Operation Bless Our Enemies gathered outside the MTS Centre to counter Graham's views.
(CBC)
"We're handing out leaflets to passersby to encourage them to embrace the gospel of full love for all people, which includes praying, but also not dropping bombs or saying hateful things," said Mennonite protester Aiden Enns on Friday.
Festival organizer Dan Klug said people of all faiths were welcome to attend the events and that the son of evangelist Billy Graham did not come to Winnipeg to cause controversy.
"I know Franklin has said statements critical of Islam — the teachings of Islam — but he has an affinity and deep heart for the Muslim people," Klug said.
In an interview with CBC News, Graham said he "hasn't seen anything" to change his mind about Islam, but he doesn't harbour the same negative assessment of the people who follow that religion.
"There are millions and millions of Muslims in the world. I certainly respect and admire their sincerity, but I feel sorry for them," he said.
Winnipeg is the only Canadian stop on the 2006 Franklin Graham Tour.
