Faith

THE QUESTION:

"How do we make sense of the extremes of evil and greatness that human beings are capable of? We have learned recently about the horrific violence in Kenya, and at the same time, we have seen the nobility of those working to feed and shelter the thousands who have fled the killing."

Michael Wright, Quaker, Middlesbrough Council of Faiths.

"We cannot take any comfort in thinking that such behaviour is just not how people like us would behave. There are too many accounts in the last 100 years, two world wars, and examples of cruel and evil behaviour from the nazi concentration camps, the communist gulags, and the treatment of hostages,to water torture in American prison camps, with the knowledge and support of our own security people, for us not to recognize that. "

Tony Penketh, Middlesbrough Spiritualist Church

"Some of us are fortunate enough to live in a loving and caring environment with family and friends who offer help and guidance when it is needed, provide us with a home, food, clothing, encourage us in education and personal development, and support us in times of need. This does not mean that we are necessarily raised in a materially wealthy situation, but more importantly, one in which consideration, love and kindness prevail."