In the name of God, most compassionate, most merciful

Catholic New Times, April 24, 2005 by Shaikh Ahmad Kutty

The Muslim community joins the world in expressing our grief as we mourn the death of Pope John Paul II. He was undoubtedly one of the great pillars of his faith and a great friend of people of all faiths. In his life and work spanning over two decades he represented what the Qur'an teaches to be the hallmark of the true followers of Jesus, peace be upon him, one of the mighty messengers of God.

The Muslim community especially valued his stand for truth and justice at a time when these fundamental ideals at the heart of all great religions are being set aside in the drive toward world domination, control of markets, consumerism, nationalism and crass materialism.

--Shaikh Ahmad Kutty, scholar in residence, Islamic Institute of Toronto (www.islam.ca)