Launching of al-Liqa two new Books
Under the auspices of the churches of Shafa ‘Amr, Al-Liqa’ Center, )the Galilee Branch( and The Rusul Al-Mustaqbal Organization- Shafa ‘Amr, a distinguished cultural evening was held on Saturday 28/2/2015 at 7 p.m. in Virgin Mary Hall, Shafa ‘Amr, to present two books that were published by Al-Liqa’ Center:
1. “Christian Presence in the Arab East: Past, Present and Future” by Fr. Dr. Rafiq Khoury
2. “Book of Evidence on Confirming Faith: Sophronius Patriarch of Jerusalem” by Dr. Geries S. Khoury
Mr. Ziad Shlewet of Al-Liqa’ moderated the presentation of the two books. He was followed by Rev. Fu’ad Dagher who greeted the audience in the name of all Shafa ‘Amr churches. Then an introduction remarks and welcoming words were given by Dr. Zaher Bahouth, President of the Rusul al-Mustaqbal.
Mr. Zeyad introduced Mr. Fathi Furani who stressed in his speech the need of life with dignity for all: Christians and Muslims and he criticized in a severs words the ISIS members and what they are they doing of ugly things in the Arab world and in the whole world community. Mr. Fathi spoke also about the importance of Omar’s Covenant.
Fr. Dr. Rafiq Khoury presented his book which is a collection of articles he wrote the last twenty years. The book covers several historical periods including the negative and positive aspects of each period.
Dr. Geries S. Khoury presented his book by stressing the need for Omar’s Covenant in each city and village while imploring everyone to work for national unity. The author presented the five parts of the book and the many challenges that faced Patriarch Sophronius at the time including Persian occupation and bloody entrance to Jerusalem in light of the weakness of the Byzantine Empire.
In the meantime Mayor of Shafa ‘Amr, Mr. Amin Anabtawi welcomed everyone and implored them to espouse the essence of religion and to focus on Omar’s Covenant and religious pluralism.
Likewise, former Mayor of Shafa ‘Amr, Mr. Nahed Khazem stressed Christian – Muslim unity in light of those dark forces’ attempts to divide and rule.
The evening was characterized by the presence of tens of members of all sectors of society and some leading religious and secular figures, both men and women.
Following the two books’ presentations, attendees were hosted for refreshments and signatures by authors.
