As the Ambassador for Christian Affairs in the Middle East, my greatest wish is for peace to prevail in our beloved region. I dream of a future where Christians from all countries—Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, and beyond—can freely visit the Holy City of Jerusalem, a place sacred to our faith, without restrictions or fear. Every Christian should have the right to walk in the footsteps of Jesus Christ, to pray at the holy sites, and to experience the spiritual embrace of the land that gave birth to our faith.
But my vision goes beyond the borders of Christianity. Peace is not just a Christian prayer—it is a universal need, a divine gift that must extend to all nations, to all people. True peace is built on the foundations of love, respect, and mutual understanding, where people of all faiths—Christians, Muslims, Jews—can live together in harmony, free from war and division. It is my deepest hope that we can bridge the gaps between communities, uniting all Christians of the Middle East without fear, and fostering a spirit of brotherhood with people of all religions.
As we approach the holy month of Ramadan, I extend my warmest blessings to all my Muslim brothers and sisters. May this sacred time be filled with peace, joy, and spiritual renewal, not just for them but for all nations. Let this season remind us that we are all children of God, called to love one another beyond our differences.
At the same time, Christians around the world are preparing for Easter, a time of deep spiritual reflection. As we observe the 40-day fast of Lent, we are reminded of the words of Christ:
“Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.” (Matthew 4:4)
Just as Jesus fasted for 40 days in the wilderness, resisting temptation and renewing His spirit, so too do we embrace fasting, prayer, and repentance, seeking to renew our souls and strengthen our faith.
As the founder of Atā’ Association in the Holy Land, I am committed to strengthening Christian presence and unity in the Middle East. Our association plays a vital role in supporting Christian communities, fostering dialogue, and promoting peace. Currently, we are preparing a special Easter hymn evening in the city of Nazareth, the town of the Annunciation, at the Basilica of the Annunciation. This event will be dedicated to Good Friday of the Virgin Mary, honoring the suffering of the Mother of Christ and the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus for humanity.
This evening of hymns is not just a celebration; it is a message of hope—a symbol of what is possible when we come together in faith and love. Through music and prayer, we seek to uplift souls, strengthen the bonds of Christian unity, and remind the world that faith conquers fear and love triumphs over division.
I dream of the day when Christian pilgrims from every corner of the Middle East will be able to visit Nazareth and all the holy sites without fear of war or conflict. A day when our region will no longer be defined by division but by unity, when faith can be practiced freely, and when people can live without the shadow of violence.
Peace is a gift from our Lord Jesus Christ. It is the light that guides us, the force that unites us, and the hope that sustains us. Let us pray and work together so that this divine gift may flourish in our hearts and in our lands. Let us stand as one, committed to building bridges, embracing one another in love, and ensuring that the Middle East—a land blessed by God—becomes a beacon of peace for all humanity.
May peace and love reign over all nations.
Article prepared by:
George ARAR
IHRC Ambassador for Christian Affairs in the Middle East
