On Friday, November 10th, 2023, His Holiness Catholicos Aram I offered a lecture on the geopolitics of religion in the Middle East, in George Washington University. During the lecture, he emphasized the message of peace and respect for human rights in the monotheistic religions.
First, His Holiness provided a general introduction to the increasing role of religion in societal life and its impact on geopolitical relations, stating that religion has historically played a significant role in various aspects of nationsā lives and that one cannot separate religion from general societal dynamics. Additionally, His Holiness acknowledged that, at times, the role of religion has been counterproductive, deviating from its moral teachings due to exploitation by political institutions and ideological doctrines.
Subsequently, His Holiness focused on key aspects of the three monotheistic religions and highlighted the interrelationship between faith and reason, the intersection of religion and politics, and the dual role of religion in both unifying and dividing societies.
In the second part of the lecture, he delved into specific considerations within the Middle East, emphasizing the importance of mutual trust, the pursuit of peace grounded in justice, the establishment of democratic governance, the opposition to radical movements, and the collaborative facing of challenges.
In the concluding remarks, His Holiness posed a challenge for representatives of Jewish, Christian, and Islamic religions to meet in Jerusalem, their shared Holy Land, to renew their commitment to collective values and principles, symbolizing a potential for a new era of peace in the Middle East.
The lecture was introduced and concluded by Aram Gavoor, the Associate Dean for Academic Affairs, who highlighted His Holiness’ role in the ecumenical and inter-religious fields.
