Catholic-Muslim relations: European bishops meet in London

The Council of Bishops' Conferences of Europe (CCEE) are meeting in London to discuss Christian-Muslim relations.

Cardinal Jean-Pierre Ricard, Archbishop of Bordeaux, France, will chair the meeting.

Fr Andrea Pacini, CCEE coordinator of the Christian-Muslim network, opened the meeting with an address on the theme of the conference, "Dialogue and Proclamation".

Archbishop Vincent Nichols, president of the Bishops' Conference of England and Wales, will celebrate Mass for the delegates at Westminster Cathedral on Thursday.

Debates on the second day will focus on reflection, dialogue, and shared experiences on the religious identity of young Christians and Muslims in Europe.

Delegates will describe the situation in their respective countries on the final day, while Cardinal Tauran will look specifically at, "What is new in relations between Muslims and the Catholic Church?"

The 32 participants represent 20 Bishops' Conferences, European Cultural and Church organisations, and experts in the field of Christian-Muslim dialogue.