On December 26, 2024, Prince Hassan met with leaders of Eastern and Western Christian churches to celebrate Christmas and extend greetings. He emphasized the significance of interfaith dialogue, shared values, and support for the marginalized. Archbishop Antimos Jacques Yaacoub highlighted the Christmas message of joy and peace in light of ongoing hardships faced by many.
On December 26, 2024, His Royal Highness Prince Hassan, the chairperson of the Royal Institute for Interfaith Studies (RIIFS), hosted a meeting with leaders and representatives from Eastern and Western Christian churches at the St. Ephrem Syriac Orthodox Church. The gathering celebrated the Christmas and New Year holidays, during which Prince Hassan extended his heartfelt greetings to the Christian community in Jordan. He emphasized the necessity for continuous efforts towards national enlightenment and urged the promotion of ethical foundations that are grounded in shared religious values.
Prince Hassan also highlighted the fundamental principles that unite humanity, particularly the shared religious calls for equality and support for the oppressed and marginalized. He referred to the Mashreq as a region characterized by diverse traditions that nurtures cooperation and mutual respect, particularly during challenging times. The Prince reaffirmed the critical relationship between faith, education, and collective endeavors aimed at fostering a peaceful future devoid of tyranny and violence.
In his address, Archbishop Antimos Jacques Yaacoub of the Syriac Orthodox Church reflected on the joyous and peaceful messages of Christmas, which serve to uplift spirits during difficult times. He noted the ongoing struggles faced by individuals in regions such as Gaza, Syria, and Lebanon, emphasizing that the message of Christmas serves as a beacon of hope and reconciliation for all. The celebratory meeting underscored the importance of dialogue and solidarity among different faith communities in Jordan.
The meeting held by Prince Hassan with leaders of Eastern and Western Christian churches is part of Jordan’s broader strategy to promote interfaith dialogue and cooperation among various religious communities in the region. Jordan has a long history of being a hub for cultural and religious diversity, and figures such as Prince Hassan play a pivotal role in fostering an environment of mutual respect and understanding. The celebration of Christmas is particularly significant as it reflects shared values of joy and peace among different faiths, while also addressing contemporary issues of conflict and suffering faced by many.
In conclusion, the meeting with Christian church leaders highlights Prince Hassan’s commitment to promoting unity, respect, and ethical foundations among diverse religious communities in Jordan. By encouraging collaboration based on shared values and mutual respect, Prince Hassan aims to strengthen interfaith relations and advocate for social justice and compassion for the marginalized. The exchanges during the gathering offer a message of hope and resilience amidst regional challenges.
Original Source: jordantimes.com
