Sentamu Warns Against False Terrorist Conclusions About Muslims

The Archbishop of York has warned that fears of terrorism can cause people to draw false conclusions about Muslims.

The language of fear has become the language of international relations, Dr John Sentamu told the Church of England's General Synod in York.

He said the challenge facing people was not about moderate versus "so-called radical Muslims", but about Islam being used for "quasi-political ends".

The Synod also addressed the possibility of a schism in the Church and marriage rules.

Dr Sentamu made his remarks in his presidential address on the fourth day of the summer Synod.

He said: "Worldwide, a new book on terrorism is published every six hours.

"Fear has begun to shape the minds and the decisions of those who take counsel for the nations. And our fear of terrorism can lead us to false conclusions about all our Muslim neighbours."

He added: "The challenge is about Islam being used for quasi-political ends at whose heart is getting into paradise now by suicide bombing propelled by a hatred of the West and its way of life - attempting to avenge past hurts by piling them on present problems."

The Church is also set to change legislation to allow couples to marry in any church where they have a "qualifying connection", but stops short of allowing couples to marry in any church of their choosing.