A new publication from the Conference of European Churches (CEC) titled Places of Worship and Holy Sites in Europe and the Middle East, edited by Dr Elizabeta Kitanovic and Rev. Dr Patrick Roger Schnabel, is now out. The book is produced in partnership with Globethics.net.

Featuring a collection of essays from renowned church leaders, academics and experts in the field, the book brings into focus how worship places – churches, synagogues, mosques, temples, shrines – are a key feature in most religions, and part of cultural heritage with a high symbolic and emotional value attached to them. However, as a consequence of armed conflict or actions by radical groups, worship places are often targeted to inflict damage and eradicate identity. For this reason, national and international laws exist to award special protection to such places.

The book offers deep insights into the relevance of the protection of religious sites in implementing Freedom of Religion or Belief and in fostering peaceful relations among different religions.

Digital copies of Places of Worship and Holy Sites in Europe and the Middle East can be downloaded from the CEC website. Print copies will soon be available from Amazon.com.