On December 26, 2024, Prince Hassan met with leaders of Eastern and Western Christian churches in Jordan to share holiday greetings and discuss the importance of interfaith unity. He stressed the need for common ethical foundations that champion human dignity and support for marginalized individuals, linking faith to education and a better future. Archbishop Antimos Jacques Yaacoub emphasized the Christmas message of joy and hope amid ongoing struggles in the region.
On December 26, 2024, His Royal Highness Prince Hassan, chairperson of the Royal Institute for Interfaith Studies (RIIFS), engaged in a significant dialogue with leaders and representatives from both Eastern and Western Christian churches at the St. Ephrem Syriac Orthodox Church, commemorating the Christmas and New Year festivities. In his address, Prince Hassan extended heartfelt holiday greetings to the Christian community in Jordan, underscoring the necessity for ongoing national enlightenment and revival initiatives. He articulated the critical importance of fostering values that promote human unity, emphasizing a shared commitment to ethical foundations rooted in common religious principles that advocate for solidarity, tolerance, and compassion among diverse communities.
Prince Hassan further emphasized that both Islam and Christianity share a fundamental understanding that upholds human dignity and advocates for equality, particularly focusing on supporting the oppressed and marginalized members of society. He remarked, “The Mashreq is a region of diverse traditions, and this diversity has fostered a culture of mutual respect and cooperation, with a strong belief in the call for unity, especially in these challenging times.” Additionally, he linked faith and education as vital components in the collective pursuit of a better future, free from tyranny, occupation, and extremism.
Archbishop Antimos Jacques Yaacoub, Patriarchal Vicar of the Syriac Orthodox Church in Jerusalem and Jordan, highlighted the essence of Christmas, noting that it symbolizes joy and peace even amid suffering. He stated, “As we celebrate Christmas, we reflect on this holy message and apply its profound meanings to our current reality, where people in Gaza, Syria, and Lebanon continue to endure hardship and pain.” The Archbishop called attention to the enduring spirit of reconciliation, joy, and hope that the Christmas message embodies, encouraging unity among all individuals regardless of their circumstances.
The meeting led by Prince Hassan reflects a broader commitment to interfaith dialogue and the promotion of understanding among different religious communities in Jordan, which is home to diverse denominations of Christianity and Islam. Such gatherings are crucial for fostering unity and compassion in a region often marked by conflict and division. The emphasis on shared values and collaboration among faith leaders is essential in addressing societal challenges and promoting peace and coexistence, particularly during significant religious celebrations like Christmas.
In summary, Prince Hassan’s engagement with Eastern and Western Christian church leaders illustrates a sincere commitment to interfaith cooperation and the promotion of shared values during the holiday season. By highlighting the importance of supporting marginalized groups and fostering mutual respect among different traditions, the Prince advocates for continued efforts towards societal unity and peace. This meeting serves as an encouraging model for the collaboration needed to address the challenges facing many communities today.
Original Source: jordantimes.com
