BAHRAIN has embraced various religions and places of worship, living as one family that is open to the world, His Majesty King Hamad has said.
This has been supported by a cohesive society and the awareness of its citizens, who believe firmly in noble human principles and respect for all peoples and religions, he said.
His Majesty was receiving His Holiness Moran Mar Baselios Marthoma Mathews III, Supreme Head of the Indian Orthodox Church at Safriya Palace yesterday.
His Holiness is visiting Bahrain to attend the celebrations held by the reconstructed St Mary’s Orthodox Syrian Church in Salmaniya, marking the 63rd anniversary of its founding in the kingdom.
The church which was built on land donated by the late Amir HH Shaikh Isa bin Salman Al Khalifa, was demolished in 2002. It was then extended on land gifted by His Majesty and was rededicated in 2003.
A major renovation of the premises began in 2012 and was completed last year.
According to officials, the church is the first Orthodox Church in the Middle East to feature iconographic art work.
His Majesty praised His Holiness’s efforts to promote humanitarian work and foster the values of goodness, love and tolerance.
He commended the role played by St Mary’s Orthodox Church and the other churches in Bahrain in promoting coexistence, love and religious tolerance among followers of religions.
The King also highlighted the freedom of religion that has marked Bahrain throughout its history.
He stressed Bahrain’s unwavering efforts and initiatives to foster the culture of rapprochement, coexistence and dialogue between religions and civilisations, adherence to the approach of moderation and mutual respect for the good of all mankind.
Moran Mar Baselios praised Bahrain’s care for followers of religions and places of worship, and highlighted the kingdom’s progress and prosperity under the wise leadership of His Majesty.
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