Prince Hassan Commends Interfaith Unity During Christmas Gathering
On December 26, 2024, Prince Hassan met with Christian church leaders in Jordan to convey holiday greetings and discuss the importance of interfaith cooperation. He emphasized shared values, human dignity, and the call for unity amid regional challenges, while Archbishop Antimos reflected on the Christmas message of hope and peace, especially for those suffering in conflict zones.
On December 26, 2024, His Royal Highness Prince Hassan, the chairperson of the Royal Institute for Interfaith Studies (RIIFS), convened with leaders from Eastern and Western Christian churches at the St. Ephrem Syriac Orthodox Church in honor of the Christmas and New Year celebrations. During the meeting, Prince Hassan delivered holiday greetings to the Jordanian Christian community, emphasizing the importance of mutual understanding and efforts for national enlightenment. He highlighted the necessity for ethical foundations grounded in shared values that foster human solidarity and tolerance. Furthermore, Prince Hassan underscored that both Islam and Christianity advocate for human dignity and equality, especially in support of marginalized groups. He acknowledged the richness of the region’s diverse traditions, promoting a culture of respect and cooperation amid current challenges.
Archbishop Antimos Jacques Yaacoub, Patriarchal Vicar of the Syriac Orthodox Church, also contributed to the gathering by reflecting on the spirit of Christmas, which encompasses joy and peace. He reiterated the relevance of Christmas messages amidst the considerable hardships faced by individuals in Gaza, Syria, and Lebanon, reinforcing the holiday as a beacon of hope and reconciliation.
The meeting between Prince Hassan and Christian leaders serves as a significant platform for promoting interfaith dialogue and unity in Jordan. As the chair of RIIFS, Prince Hassan advocates for social cohesion, emphasizing shared values between Islam and Christianity. The context of the Christmas celebrations provides an occasion for reflection on themes of peace and compassion, particularly in light of contemporary regional conflicts affecting various communities.
In conclusion, the gathering between Prince Hassan and Christian leaders highlighted the vital need for interfaith cooperation and understanding in Jordan. By advocating for common ethical foundations and addressing the plight of marginalized populations, the discussions reinforced the importance of unity amid diversity. The reflections shared by the Christian representatives further echoed the calls for joy and hope during the Christmas season, aiming to inspire reconciliation and peace in the region.
Original Source: jordantimes.com
