The Abrahamic Family House, located in Abu Dhabi, is a shining light of hope and understanding in a world that can often seem divided. This cultural landmark, which houses a synagogue, a church, and a mosque, serves as a symbol of peaceful coexistence and mutual respect among the three Abrahamic faiths: Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.
The inspiration for this project came from the Document on Human Fraternity, signed by Pope Francis on behalf of the Catholic Church and Ahmed El-Tayeb on behalf of the al-Azhar Mosque in 2019 in Abu Dhabi. The Abrahamic Family House is situated on Saadiyat Island in Abu Dhabi and opened its doors to worshippers in February 2023.
Designed by architect Sir David Adjaye, the complex embodies the shared values of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam through its three main structures: a mosque, a church, and a synagogue. These three separate iconic houses of worship are officially named “Imam AlTayeb Mosque,” “St. Francis Church,” and “Moses Ben Maimon Synagogue.”
In addition to these three places of worship, the site also features a cultural center that aims to foster human fraternity and solidarity within a community that values mutual respect and peaceful coexistence while preserving the unique character of each faith.
The Abrahamic Family House is more than just a physical structure; it is a symbol of hope and unity. It represents Abu Dhabi’s vision for human fraternity and integrates coexistence into the already diverse cultural fabric of the UAE. It is a place where people of different faiths can come together to learn from one another, share their stories, and build bridges of understanding.
In conclusion, the Abrahamic Family House in Abu Dhabi promotes interfaith dialogue and understanding. It serves as a reminder that despite our differences, we are all part of one human family. Let us all strive to follow its example and work towards building a world where peace, love, and harmony prevail.