King Hamad's Donation for Greek Orthodox Church Reflects Bahrain's Commitment to Religious Pluralism

Dr Shaikh Abdulla bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the King Hamad Global Centre for Peaceful Coexistence (KHGC), expressed his gratitude for His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa's generous gesture of donating a plot of land for the construction of a Greek Orthodox Church. This act underscores the Kingdom's dedication to religious pluralism and peaceful coexistence.

Dr. Shaikh Abdulla praised the royal commitment to embracing all religions and beliefs within Bahrain, fostering closer ties between cultures and civilizations. His remarks were made during the signing ceremony for the new church in the Seef area, emphasizing Bahrain's commitment to ensuring religious freedoms and positioning the Kingdom as a beacon of tolerance and peaceful coexistence. He highlighted Bahrain as a thriving oasis where religious practices can be conducted freely and securely. He acknowledged His Majesty's support for initiatives to enhance human fraternity and create a more peaceful future for all.

He noted that the new church is a testament to the values of harmony and coexistence within the Bahraini community and credited His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, for his support.

Dr. Shaikh Abdulla affirmed that His Majesty the King is a leader in promoting religious freedom and peaceful coexistence, inspired by Bahrain's rich legacy of moderation and openness. He recalled that the Kingdom was home to the first Hindu temple in the Gulf in 1819, further reflecting its long-standing commitment to diversity.

On this occasion, the Chairman congratulated the board of the Greek Orthodox Church and those involved in the construction project. He encouraged them to engage with the initiative launched by the King Hamad Global Centre for Peaceful Coexistence, in partnership with the Bahrain Centre for Strategic, International and Energy Studies (Derasat), on the "Green Worship Spaces" program. This initiative aims to enhance community participation in combating climate change and promote scientific research related to places of worship, including architecture and renewable energy use.

Dr. Shaikh Abdulla also highlighted Bahrain's success in humanitarian efforts and implementing the Bahrain Declaration's vision and objectives. He concluded by reiterating the mission of the King Hamad Global Centre for Peaceful Coexistence, which is rooted in promoting human fraternity by protecting religious practices and fostering solidarity and harmony within societies.