Coptic Orthodox Church lauds UAE inter-faith policy
2012-01-07
Abu Dhabi, 7th Jan. 2012 (WAM) — The UAE tolerant inter-faith policy adopted by the UAE under the wise leadership of President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan has drawn praise from the Coptic Orthodox Church of Egypt at a Christmas mass here last night.
In the name of Pope Shenouda III of Alexandria and Patriarch of Saint Mark, Ishaq Al Anba Bishoy, Pastor of Al Anba Antonio Orthodox Coptic Cathedral Church in Abu Dhabi, paid gratitude in a Christmas mass sermon last night to Sheikh Khalifa, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Their Highnesses Rulers of Emirates, His Highness General Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, government and people of the UAE, for the support and assistance awarded to Christians to perform their religious activities with full freedom and safety.
He painted Sheikh Khalifa’s tolerant policy as a ” message of love and peace to to all countries of the world which renders the spirit of brotherhood and love that should prevail among followers of divine religions, particularly on our dear Arab land, birthplace of religions and cradle of civilisations and cultures.
Both Muslims and Christians lit candles at the Cathedral and prayed to The Almighty for peace and harmony on the Arab World and beyond.
Ali Al Hashimi, Religious and Judicial Adviser at the Ministry of Presidential Affairs, who attended the mass along with other officials, stressed the importance of maintaining common factors and noble values bringing both Muslims and Christians together.
”Christ’s Birthday is a revered occasion to Muslims,” he said, noting that the Holy Quran mentioned the miracle of His birth.
WAM/TF
