King receives Archbishop of Canterbury, leaders of Anglican churches from around the world

AMMAN — His Majesty King Abdullah on Monday received Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby, who is head of the worldwide Anglican Communion, and Anglican Church leaders from around the world currently holding their meetings in Jordan.

During the meeting — attended by HRH Prince Ghazi Bin Muhammad, His Majesty’s chief adviser for religious and cultural affairs and personal envoy, and held at the Baptism Site Conference Centre at Bethany beyond the Jordan — King Abdullah stressed Jordan’s commitment to its historical and religious role in safeguarding Islamic and Christian holy sites in Jerusalem, in line with the Hashemite Custodianship, according to a Royal Court statement.

His Majesty underscored the importance of countering any attempts that may alter the historical and legal status quo of the holy city or harm its identity.

Jordan’s role in enhancing interfaith dialogue, tolerance and fellowship was highlighted, with the King stressing that Christians are an integral part of the region’s fabric.

Archbishop Welby expressed his appreciation for His Majesty’s efforts in pursuit of peace and stability in the region, and in promoting interfaith dialogue and tolerance.

He underscored the importance of the Hashemite Custodianship of holy sites in Jerusalem, commending the King’s efforts to safeguard them and maintain the Christian presence in the holy land and the region.

Archbishop Welby also lauded Jordan's efforts, led by His Majesty, in hosting refugees, describing the Kingdom as a true model to follow.

Anglican Church leaders from around the world are in Jordan to hold meetings for setting the Church’s objectives and strategy for the coming decade of 2020-2030, reaffirming the values of love, peace and coexistence.

 These meetings, coordinated this year by the Episcopal Diocese of Jerusalem to be hosted in Jordan, are held every 10 years.

His Majesty's Adviser for Communication and Coordination Bisher Khasawneh, Greek Orthodox Patriarch of Jerusalem Theophilos III, Latin Patriarchal Deputy in Jordan Bishop William Shomali, Greek Orthodox Patriarchal Deputy in Jordan Bishop Christophoros Attallah, and British Ambassador to Jordan Edward Oakden attended the meeting.