Pope Francis Engages With Abrahamic Family House Delegation To Promote Interfaith Dialogue

A delegation from the Abrahamic Family House, led by Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, visited Pope Francis to further the goals of the Document on Human Fraternity. This visit underscores the importance of fostering human fraternity, dialogue, and mutual understanding. During a private meeting at the Vatican, the delegation presented St. Francis Church as a symbol of appreciation for Pope Francis's leadership in promoting interfaith dialogue and peaceful coexistence.

Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak highlighted that the Abrahamic Family House represents the UAE's enduring values of mutual respect and interfaith harmony. These principles align with the Document on Human Fraternity’s call to action. "Our ongoing partnership with the Holy See signifies a profound commitment to His Holiness in nurturing a global community anchored in human fraternity and peaceful coexistence," he stated.

The Abrahamic Family House embodies principles from the Document on Human Fraternity, signed by Grand Imam Ahmed El-Tayeb and Pope Francis in 2019. This document advocates for global peace and encourages dialogue, respect, and collaboration among different faiths. The UAE has maintained strong ties with the Holy See, collaborating on initiatives that promote peace and interfaith cooperation.

St. Francis Church is part of the Abrahamic Family House located in Abu Dhabi's Saadiyat Cultural District. It serves as a centre for learning, dialogue, and faith practice alongside Ahmed El-Tayeb Mosque and Moses Ben Maimon Synagogue. The church honours St. Francis of Assisi, known for his dedication to peace and compassion.

Since its opening in 2023, St. Francis Church has welcomed 130,000 worshippers for services and prayers. It has hosted over 100 events including weddings, baptisms, and community lectures. Performances by groups like the Little Singers of Paris have also taken place here.

Pope Francis expressed gratitude to the delegation for their efforts towards achieving the aspirations outlined in the Document on Human Fraternity for Global Peace and Living Together. Representatives from the Vatican Dicastery for Interreligious Dialogue also attended this meeting to support these initiatives.

On 20th October, Grand Imam Ahmed El-Tayeb received another delegation from the Abrahamic Family House. This reflects ongoing efforts to strengthen relationships between different faith communities through shared values of diversity and exchange.

The UAE's collaboration with the Holy See highlights its history as a hub for diversity and cultural exchange. The Abrahamic Family House continues to be a beacon for fostering understanding among various religious communities worldwide through its initiatives and programmes.

With inputs from WAM