Theology reminded me that, however diabolical the act, it did not turn the perpetrator into a demon. We had to distinguish between the deed and the perpetrator, between the sinner and the sin, to hate and condemn the sin while being filled with compassion for the sinner.

People often speak of God being even-handed. God is not even-handed. God is biased, in favor of the weak, of the despised.

I say somewhat facetiously, "I'm so glad I'm not God." Can you imagine being God and looking at Syria and saying: "These are my children. Look at what they're doing to each other."

Without forgiveness there can be no future for a relationship between individuals or within and between nations.

And every human being is precious.

I would refuse to go to a homophobic heaven. No, I would say sorry, I mean I would much rather go to the other place.

Brothers and sisters of Egypt, you have given the world the most precious gift: the belief that ultimately right will prevail.