Cardinal Koch: Christians more persecuted today, than during the first centuries.

Cardinal Koch: Christians more persecuted today, than during the first centuries.(TA).[GoogleTranslate].

President of the Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity , the Swiss Cardinal Kurt Koch gave an interview in Zurich daily Tages Anzeiger who has published in its issue of Easter Sunday April 5th. Here is an authorized Cardinal judgment on the persecution of Christians these days ...

"Christianity in the world today, is the most persecuted religion. 80% of those who are persecuted for reasons of faith are Christians. Today Christians are more persecuted than during the first centuries."

You are at the Vatican as "ecumenical minister" responsible for relations with Judaism. How good is the relationship? 

The dialogue with Many Jews is at the Catholic Church's heart. I did already know this myself , when I took my new job in Rome July 1, 2010. The first people who visited me, have been Jews. Many Jews view the Catholic Church as a reliable partner in the fight against anti-Semitism, which shows growing market again.

How much are you concerned that?

The reappearance of anti-Semitism shows that people do not learn from history often. We have just in Europe a gruesome history in dealing with the Jews. That on this continent anti-Semitism returns is a tragic situation that causes me great concern.

Israel's policy matter in these aversions?

The Promise of the Land belongs to the Jewish faith. On the other hand,  not everything that should happen in the state and in the policies of Israel, be regarded as fulfilling this promise. The policy of Israel must be open to criticism. And one should not judge any criticism of Israeli policies as anti-Semitism. If this difference is not done, instead of anti-Semitism is promoted fights. Read the full interview here.