“Only when religious freedom and security are not regarded as opposites can there be real and meaningful progress,” Jonathan Gallagher, deputy secretary general of the International Religious Liberty Association (IRLA) and the journal’s editor, writes in the 2005 issue of “Fides et Libertas” (“Faith and Liberty”), the annual journal of the International Religious Liberty Association.

In an article on “Religious Freedom and Global Security,” Gallagher adds, “Only when religious freedom is recognized as a vital aspect of [a] peaceful society that practices mutual respect can there be true security.”

Fides et Libertas is published annually and seeks to communicate IRLA’s vision of promoting religious freedom throughout the world. It is sent to law schools, theological seminaries and state universities to invite study. Others, including lawmakers and government officials, receive it so they may be better informed in their work. Through its influence, the journal seeks to help all involved in religious freedom issues to be more aware, and better able, to rightly advance freedom of belief—a principle under increasing threat in so many parts of today’s world.

Speaking with ANN, Gallagher explains, “Our belief is that since God is a God of freedom, then we also must ensure that everyone has the right to choose their beliefs. That’s why we are so committed to promoting the essential principles of religious freedom for all—so that each can make an informed choice and know why they believe what they do, above all in the sphere of religion.”

“I believe that as freedom favors true dialogue, religious freedom favors a sincere dialogue between religions and contribute[s] to build[ing] peaceful relationships,” says Dr. John Graz, IRLA secretary general, in a paper published in the journal.  “We need freedom of expression to dialogue about our differences.”

Among other articles in the journal is a statement from the Hon. Patrick Manning, prime minister of Trinidad and Tobago, supporting religious freedom; and an article by Emory University Professor T. Jeremy Gunn on “Taking Religion Seriously When Promoting State Security.”

For more information see

http://www.irla.org