Algeria’s celebration of the anniversary of St. Augustin was an unusual event as it took place in a political climate where a bloody conflict between the state and Islamic groups is still at its peak. European Christian circles welcomed this initiative by the Algerian government, considering it an important step towards dialogue, but the celebration was harshly criticized by extremist fundamentalist groups.

Within the next few weeks, Pope John Paul II will visit a mosque in Damascus (Syria). The importance of these two events goes far beyond the political and general climate they are taking place in. The age and the world where we live force all peoples to coexist and cooperate to keep peace and life upon the face of this earth. Celebrating the anniversary of St. Augustin and the Pope’s visit to Damascus may help in building new bridges between the Islamic East and the Christian West, for the sake of the two parties.