In a lecture, November 22nd, on citizenship and the role of Christians in Jordan, Haytham Ereifej, a prominent lawyer, highlighted the significant contributions of christians to Jordanian society, emphasizing their influence in various sectors despite their small numbers.

Speaking at a journalism training workshop organized by the “Milhilard.org website and the Arab Center for Consultancy and Training Services (ACCTS), Dr. Ereifej outlined the long history of Christian presence in Jordan and their impact on public life.

He noted their leading roles in fields such as science, medicine, culture, and education, as well as their active involvement in resisting the Israeli occupation. Figures such as George Habash, Nayef Hawatmeh, and Theresa Halasa were among those Ereifej cited as pivotal in resistance movements.

Dr. Ereifej stressed the importance of Christian participation in Jordan’s electoral process, both as candidates and voters, calling on the community to take responsibility and act with integrity. He praised King Abdullah II and Crown Prince Hussein for promoting justice, equality, and tolerance in the kingdom.

However, Ereifej also acknowledged the challenges facing Jordan’s Christian community, particularly high unemployment, and the ongoing displacement of Palestinians from the West Bank to Jordan and beyond. He urged workshop participants to channel any frustrations into constructive action, saying, “Anger alone does not bring change. It must be directed toward creating positive outcomes.”

In his closing remarks, Ereifej encouraged attendees not to underestimate their role in shaping their society, urging them to actively participate in public life and contribute to societal dialogue rather than remaining on the sidelines.