AACC's 6th Annual Theological Symposium reflected on the Sacred Heritage and the Struggle for Peace in the Holy Land

In a presentation that opened the floor of the second day of the symposium, H.E. Dr. Wasfi Kilani interrogated the significance of the historical and religious sites in Israel and Palestine such as the Jerusalem’s Old City, the Al-Aqsa Mosque, the Western Wall and the Church of the Holy Sepulch to Jews, Muslims and Christians as he also elaborated how these places have become flashpoints of tension and symbols of contested sovereignty.

“What should be spaces of shared reverence are instead entangled in political and military struggles, illustrating how the misuse of religion and history can deepen division rather than foster peace,” he said. 
H.E Wasfi Kilani is the executive director of the Hashemite Fund for the restoration of Al-Aqsa Mosque and the Dome of the Rock.

He underscored how violence threatens both faith and history, expressing that recent attacks near the Mount of Olives have led to the destruction of valuable archaeological artifacts, including a statue of Mary. In response to H.E Wasfi’s presentation, one of the participants articulated that the historical and religious sites in Israel and Palestine must be protected under the international laws.

H.E Wasfi pointed out that the sites have been recognized as world heritage sites, even though Israel does not respect the laws, and sometimes pilgrims who visit the sites are perceived as idle worshipers.

Following the discussion on H.E Wasfi’s presentation, two young theologians; Rev. Muhigi Dickson Jonas from Tanzania and Rev Stanely Toddison from Ghana took the podium for a debate on the role of pilgrimages to the holy land. 

While Rev. Muhigi affirmed that such pilgrimages are a continuation of the biblical faith journey, Rev. Stanley borrowed from the teachings of Reformers; Calvin and Luther to emphasize that true pilgrimage is walking daily with God in faith and obedience and has nothing to do with visiting specific sites in search for salvific blessings.

In the photo:  H.E. Dr. Wasfi Kilani addressing the symposium [Courtesy: Brian Muyunga]