By Laila Azzeh

AMMAN - HRH Princess Basma on Thursday highlighted the importance of dialogue between followers of different religions in order to dispel myths, prejudices and fear that exist from a lack of understanding.

In her address at the opening of the 2nd Convention for Episcopal Women in the Diocese of Jerusalem and the Middle East, the Princess noted that the region, which is the cradle of the three monotheistic religions, is a symbol of the spirit of interfaith harmony, benevolence and mutual respect.

Underlining the importance of interfaith dialogue, Princess Basma said events around the world have shown the urgency for individuals and groups to work together.

She added that Jordanians, Christians and Muslims alike, are proud of their Arab identity and believe that both Christianity and Islam are an inseparable part of their cultural heritage from which they draw great strength.

The convention, held under the theme "Let Our Light Shine", seeks to build bridges of cooperation between female members of the diocese and provide a platform for dialogue between Islam and Christianity.

Emphasising the need to engage women in political, social and economic life, Princess Basma called for activating women’s role, particularly in light of international and regional political changes.

She said we must pay attention to new innovative methods in leadership, because of the complex dynamics imposed on women by globalisation.

Collectively, women in the Arab world should support transformative leadership, which emphasises the principles of service to others, women's empowerment, equality in leadership, human rights and peace, she noted.

Aida Khader, a member of the Jerusalem's churches committees, said the meeting provides participants with the opportunity to share their experiences as members of the diocese.

"I am so honoured to be part of this gathering, which allows us to take a closer look at challenges each of us face as women," Khader told The Jordan Times, adding that Arab women, regardless of their religion, have the same aspirations and dreams for a better life for the coming generations.

Around 100 women as well as clergymen, who are members of 34 diocese institutions in Jordan, Palestine, Lebanon and Syria, are attending the meeting, in addition to guests from the US and several European countries.

In his address, Anglican Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Jerusalem and the Middle East Suhail Dawani underscored the importance of the convention in building bridges between followers of different diocese institutions, calling for strengthening Islamic-Christian ties by promoting coexistence.

Cynthia Byler, representative of the administration of the Mennonite Central Committee in Jordan, highlighted the importance of the convention in enabling followers of different churches in the Arab world to meet and share their views.

Byler, who has served in Jordan for two years, told The Jordan Times that the Kingdom is considered a model of religious tolerance and coexistence in the region.

Participants at the five-day event, held at the Theodor Schneller School in Amman, will also discuss challenges facing women in the Arab world and means to activate their role in Arab communities.

Following the opening ceremony, Princess Basma inaugurated a kindergarten at the school, which was established under a JD13,000 grant extended by the German embassy in Amman.

Founded in 1959 as a shelter for orphans, the school provides educational and vocational training for underprivileged children.