Apropos the Redmond mayor’s 2016 reflections (Dec. 30 Reporter), I commend his heartening “hatred and intolerance have no place in our community” response to the unfortunate mosque vandalism. For those that watched the Istanbul bomb attacks news unfold, his response was a refreshing contrast to the ISIS statement claiming their “soldier of the brave caliphate attacked one of the most popular nightclubs while Christians were celebrating their holiday.” What a stark contrast of world views.

To those listening, Isa (the Arabic translation for Jesus Christ) asked to love enemies, do good to conquer hate, bless those who curse and to pray for those who mistreat. Mayor Marchione, my salaam to your office for modeling, in my opinion, from the holy book our Muslim friends call the Injil. I only hope your comments don’t catch the attention of anti-freedom organizations on a veritable witch-hunt to bully governments for statements with Christian underpinnings.

Richard Lewis

Redmond