Wishing You a Merry Christmas
By Salam Al-Marayati
MPAC President

This is the time of year highlighted by happiness, goodwill, and special consideration for family and friends.  On this Christmas, I would like to send a greeting to our Christian family, our brothers and sisters who mark this day in remembrance of Jesus (peace be upon him). May this day be full of joy and blessings for you and your families.
As we wish everyone a Merry Christmas, let us remember that in our shared humanity, we aspire towards the same values marked by a fundamental goodness.  All of us feel a sense of inner contentment when we see acts of kindness and selflessness, and we all experience unease and dissonance when we witness injustice and cruelty.  Each of us shares the same hopes for our children and desires the same things for our communities. We want to live in environments that are safe and nurturing and provide resources for us to be able to live happy lives with one another.  And most importantly, we are all drawn to a bigger purpose - living good and productive lives. 
We live in times that are increasingly turbulent. The violence and divisiveness in many parts of the world is distressing.  Civil wars, sectarian conflicts, ethnic animosities, religious bigotry and the rise of extremism have created confusing and complex challenges; but to be successful in countering these issues, we must be united, pooling our resources and collective wisdom.
Let us begin by letting the underlying message and spirit of Christmas bring us together as one humanity and renew our commitment to building mutual respect and religious coexistence. Let us derive courage and moral guidance from our faiths to build unity and strength. Let us enjoin one another to love, pursue peace and to build a greater good.