Amman: The first Conference of Arab Christians, titled "Roots, Roles, and the Renaissance Path," commenced in Amman on Friday. The event was organized by the Orthodox Society for Culture and Education in collaboration with the Arab Christian Initiative "Arouba," and it welcomed a diverse array of Arab and European figures from Russia, Germany, the Netherlands, France, Lebanon, Syria, Palestine, and Jordan.
According to Jordan News Agency, Conference President Hammam Ghussib emphasized in his opening remarks that Christianity originated in this region and continues to be a crucial element of its Arab identity. He noted that the Arabic language has long been a unifying bond for the people of the Arab nation. Ghussib stressed that any attempts to create division among the nation's members based on ethnicity, religion, or sect are unacceptable, affirming that citizenship should be based on equality in rights and duties. He cited Jordan as an exemplary model of coexistence and mutual respect.
Ghussib highlighted the conference's goal of showcasing the significant contributions of Arab Christians to the Arab world's renaissance throughout history. The event aims to revive the legacy of early pioneers who served their nations with dedication and transcended religious and sectarian affiliations.
Ihsan Hamarneh, Chairman of the Board of the Orthodox Society for Culture and Education, affirmed that Arab Christians have been integral partners in the Arab renaissance and supported their Muslim compatriots in confronting the Crusades. He emphasized that Muslim-Christian coexistence is fundamental to Jordan's national policy, from the Great Arab Revolt to the present day under the leadership of His Majesty King Abdullah II, the Custodian of Islamic and Christian holy sites.
Hamarneh also reviewed the historical role of Arab Christians in Arab liberation movements, their significant contributions to literature, art, and theology, and their steadfast defense of the Palestinian cause. He warned against efforts to displace Christians from their homelands, describing such attempts as a threat that aligns with the Israeli project of establishing a "Jewish state." He further underscored the Society's mission to provide quality education through its national schools in Shmeisani and Ashrafieh and its charitable initiatives like the "Winter Aid" campaign.
Rula Nasrawin, the Conference's Media and Communications Officer, stated that the event aims to raise awareness about the civilizational role of Arab Christians and highlight the historic partnership between Muslims and Christians within the broader Arab renaissance project. She noted that Saturday's sessions would feature research papers discussing topics such as Arab identity within the Orthodox world, current challenges, and the historical authority of the Jerusalemite Church in Jordan.
The opening ceremony also included musical and choral performances by the Amman Orthodox Scouts and Guides and the Orthodox National School Choir, which were warmly received by the audience.