HRH Prince Hassan met with leaders from Eastern and Western Christian churches on December 26, 2024, to discuss the celebration of Christmas and the New Year. He emphasized unity, support for the marginalized, and the importance of building a compassionate society. Archbishop Antimos Jacques Yaacoub also spoke on the foundational messages of joy and hope during the Christmas season, especially in the context of ongoing hardships in the region.
On December 26, 2024, His Royal Highness Prince Hassan, the chairperson of the Royal Institute for Interfaith Studies (RIIFS), met with leaders and delegates from both Eastern and Western Christian churches at the St. Ephrem Syriac Orthodox Church. This gathering celebrated the Christmas and New Year holidays, during which Prince Hassan extended his greetings to the Christian community in Jordan. He emphasized the significance of fostering national enlightenment, upholding common values that unite humanity, and establishing ethical foundations grounded in shared religious beliefs that promote solidarity, tolerance, and compassion.
Prince Hassan articulated that understanding human dignity is a fundamental principle shared in both Islam and Christianity, highlighting the importance of supporting the marginalized and oppressed. He affirmed the Mashreq’s rich cultural diversity as a source of mutual respect and cooperation, advocating for unity in navigating current global challenges. The prince also underscored the intertwined roles of faith and education in striving toward a better future, free from tyranny and extremism.
Reflecting on the essence of Christmas, Archbishop Antimos Jacques Yaacoub, Patriarchal Vicar of the Syriac Orthodox Church in Jerusalem and Jordan, articulated that this season represents joy that dispels sorrow and peace that can fill the hearts of those suffering in regions like Gaza, Syria, and Lebanon. He reaffirmed that despite adversities, Christmas is a time to cultivate joy, peace, and hope, serving as a catalyst for reconciliation.
This article covers a significant meeting held by HRH Prince Hassan with various Christian church representatives in Jordan to commemorate the Christmas and New Year celebrations. The gathering reflects the ongoing efforts toward interfaith dialogue, mutual respect, and the promotion of shared ethical values. In a region characterized by diversity yet facing numerous challenges, such meetings serve to enhance cooperation among different faiths, fostering a culture of unity especially in times of adversity.
In conclusion, HRH Prince Hassan’s meeting with Eastern and Western Christian leaders highlights the importance of interfaith dialogue and the promotion of shared values in fostering peace and cooperation. The emphasis on mutual respect and support for the marginalized underscores a collective vision for a more unified and compassionate society, especially vital during challenging times. Archbishop Antonimos Jacques Yaacoub’s reflections further reinforce this message, calling for joy, peace, and hope amidst adversity.
Original Source: jordantimes.com
