Austrian Cardinal Christoph Schönborn has sought to clarify a recent controversial statement he made during a church festival, in which he suggested that Europe risks falling victim to an “Islamic conquest”.
He made headlines after giving a speech during the church festival "Holy Name of Mary", which was first introduced 333 years ago in gratitude for the victory over the Ottomans in the famous Battle of Vienna in 1683.
According to the Archdiocese of Vienna, the cardinal said: "Will there now be a third attempt at an Islamic conquest of Europe? Many Muslims long for it and say: Europe is at the end."
However, in an update posted on the Archdiocese’s website he said his words had been misinterpreted on social media as an attack against Muslims and refugees. [The Local] Read more
