In a world increasingly torn apart by conflict, the need for dialogue and understanding has never been more critical. The Franciscan friars of the Custody of the Holy Land, deeply rooted in values of peace, humility, and service, has taken it upon itself to seek to establish methods and ways of dialogue in the Middle East, a region long ravaged by war and strife.
Peace and dialogue projects as fostered by the JPIC Commission of the Custody of the Holy Land aim to foster above all, dialogue, reconciliation and understanding between Israelis and Palestinians. These initiatives involve various organizations and approaches, including bringing together individuals affected by conflict, promoting joint activities, and educating younger generations in coexistence.
Prime examples of this are the many Franciscan schools where Muslim and Christian teachers and pupils learn in an open and harmonious atmosphere. The Terra Sancta Museum also receives parties from Jewish, Muslim and Christian schools and Universities where they can learn together from their common heritage. The “Magnificat” Music school based in the Franciscan headquarters in the Old City of Jerusalem has Jewish, Muslim, and Christian teachers and pupils. They share the simple goal of learning music which brings them together even during these difficult days of war.
Our mission stands as an embodiment of hope for all people of goodwill who yearn to build bridges rather than walls. The Middle East has been a region marked by violence and division, where the cries for peace often seem drowned out by the clamour of conflict. Centuries of historical grievances, intertwined with religious fervour and nationalistic fervour, have created an atmosphere where even the most well-intentioned efforts to mediate can meet with skepticism and resistance.
However, the friars believe that open and sincere dialogue can pave the way to mutual understanding and coexistence. Drawing inspiration from St Francis of Assisi, who famously preached a message of peace and respect for all creation, the Franciscan community has taken its lead in various initiatives aimed at bridging divides. Many entities have established dialogue programmes that bring together conflicting parties—whether by religion, ethnicity, or political stance—to share their stories, grievances, and hopes for the future.
We, by fostering open conversation, forming the young friars in formation, the parishes and schools to open up so that the friars aim to cultivate empathy and dismantle the stereotypes that often fuel animosity.
The initiatives of JPIC are to help to foster workshops and seminars aimed at educating communities about the importance of dialogue and understanding different perspectives. These gatherings often include religious leaders, local activists, and everyday citizens who actively seek solutions to the ongoing conflicts. The friars encourage participants to express not only their concerns but also their aspirations for a peaceful coexistence, creating a safe space for dialogue that many have long felt was absent.
Another essential component of the Franciscans’ mission is interdenominational ad interfaith dialogue, wheresoever possible. The Franciscan community recognizes that the power of faith transcends borders and ideologies.
The friars have been instrumental in creating platforms where different religious communities can come together to discuss their beliefs and practices while addressing common issues such as poverty, education, and social justice. This interdenominational and interfaith collaboration strengthens communal bonds and reduces the likelihood of miscommunication that often leads to conflict. Despite our efforts, the path to peace remains fraught with challenges. The ongoing violence can lead to skepticism about the feasibility of dialogue as a means to resolution.
The friars continuously work to show that peace is not merely the absence of conflict but the presence of justice and dignity for all. By instilling hope and resilience, they encourage communities and entities to see dialogue not as an act of weakness, but as a powerful tool for negotiation and healing.
For those of goodwill around the world, the Franciscan mission of the Custody in general and through the Commission of Justice and peace, supported by the General Office at the Franciscan Curia General in Rome, offers a beacon of hope—the belief that peace is attainable if we commit to understanding and listening to one another.
As the conflicts in the Middle East continue to unfold, the Custody remains steadfast, tirelessly working towards fostering an environment ripe for dialogue. Our efforts remind us all that even in the darkest of times, the seeds of peace can be sown through open hearts and willing minds, nurturing a future where harmony prevails over discord.
Jean Luck OFM
Custody of Holy Land
