October 25, 2011. (Romereports.com) In the Middle East, bridging difference between Christians and Muslims has been an ongoing struggle.
As a way to bridge some of those differences, the Latin Patriarchate of
Jerusalem opened a new university this week in Jordan. It's called the
American University of Madaba.
Arch.Fouad Twal
Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem “In the Middle East there is some culture of violence, culture of fear. With this new university of Madaba, I hope to create a new culture of collaboration, of openness, happiness, new leaders for a new society, peace, dialogue for everybody. That's my dream.”The university has been in the making for six years. In fact, at one point, to make the project a reality, the pope made a generous donation. Back in 2009, he even blessed the foundation of the campus during his visit to Jordan.
Arch. Fouad Twal
Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem“We have already 200 students, we will start with 18 majors.”Even though for now, only 200 Christian and Muslim students have enrolled, next academic year, 1,000 students are expected. Most of them are from Jordan, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Iran, Iraq, Kuwait and the Holy Land. In total, the university is designed for 8,000 students.
Living with respect, dignity and above all peace is the goal. Getting there isn't simple, but the Patriarch says, this university is a step in the right direction.
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