Pope Welcomes Historic Delegation: A New Chapter in Interfaith Dialogue Unfolds
Pope Francis Meets Delegation from Abrahamic Family House in Abu Dhabi
The Abrahamic Family House, an interfaith complex in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, is a symbol of unity and coexistence among three major world religions. This unique institution, which houses a mosque, a church, and a synagogue, was born out of the historic document on human brotherhood signed by Pope Francis and the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, Ahmed Al-Tayeb.
On October 28, Pope Francis received a delegation from the Abrahamic Family House at the Vatican. The delegation, led by Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, president of the Abrahamic Family Institute, included representatives of the Congregation for Interreligious Dialogue. The meeting aimed to promote “joint efforts” and foster “brotherhood and a culture of mutual understanding on crisis issues.”
The Abrahamic Family House is a tangible representation of the “Human Fraternity” document, which Pope Francis and the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar signed on February 4, 2019. This document promotes world peace and coexistence among nations and peoples. The delegation’s visit to the Vatican underscores the commitment of the Catholic Church to interfaith dialogue and promoting harmony worldwide.
During the meeting, the delegation presented a model of the Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi, located within the interfaith complex, as a gift to the Pope. This symbolic gesture emphasizes the Catholic Church’s dedication to promoting interfaith dialogue and living in harmony with people of other faiths.
Pope Francis expressed his gratitude to the delegation for their efforts to fulfill the aspirations of the document on fraternity, namely, “global peace and coexistence.” The Abrahamic Family House is a beacon of hope for a more harmonious and peaceful world, and the Pope’s meeting with the delegation reinforces the importance of interfaith dialogue and cooperation.
Earlier, on October 20, the Abrahamic Family House delegation also visited the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, Ahmed Al-Tayeb, further solidifying the bonds of friendship and cooperation among the three Abrahamic faiths.
Learn more about the Vatican’s efforts to promote interfaith dialogue and understanding.