A Vatican meeting of Roman Catholic bishops from the Middle East next October will discuss Islamic fundamentalism and attacks on Christians in the region, a preparatory document said. The issue appeared several times in the responses by bishops to Vatican questions in preparation for the October 10-24 synod of prelates from the region who will hold discussions with Pope Benedict and Vatican officials.
In part of a 30-page preparatory document issued by the Vatican on Tuesday, bishops said the growth of the Internet had helped the spread of radical groups.
"In response to this situation (growth of the Internet), Islamic fundamentalist groups are becoming widespread," the document said.
In an apparent reference to countries such as Saudi Arabia, it said the application of Sharia law in the public and private spheres in Islamic states "always constitutes discrimination and, therefore a violation of a person's human rights".
The document also expressed fears of more attacks against the dwindling number of Christians in the Middle East.
"With the rise of Islamism, incidents against Christians are increasing almost everywhere," it said.
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