In Iraq, Syria, Libya and other countries Christians are being persecuted by Islamist extremists simply because of their faith.

It is good that we pray for Christians but should we wait for miracles to happen or should we see what other means we have to protect them? In reality, what is being done to help them?

There are 2.2 billion Christians yet is there nothing we can do to defend these people? Should we wait for the international community to take action or should we help these Christians ourselves?

In difficult times the Catholic Church has convened ecumenical councils. Doesn’t this situation call for such a council? Indeed, a council should be held not just for Catholics but for all Christian denominations.

This should be a time of unity in the face of such evil. It is also a time for all people of good will to join and unite against this latest threat.

Also, shouldn’t we be finding ways of improving our society as a solution to this crisis? Wouldn’t it be good if a movement is set up that is not made up of representatives of governments who might have ulterior motives or interests?

What is needed is a movement that creates a charter of good values and a roadmap for a better society, one that tries to involve everyone while denouncing evil acts.

When we are shocked and angered by the killings of our fellow humans in other countries and we turn to God for help, let us not forget that He might be calling us to do something about it.

Let us not get used to everyday atrocities as a way of life nor run away from our responsibility to help every human who suffers oppression and injustice.