Most Rev. Archbishop Pierbattista Pizzaballa, Apostolic Administrator of the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem, has extended his best wishes to the Catholic Center for Studies and Media (CCSM) in Jordan on its 5th anniversary, as well on the 15th anniversary of the launching of the Arabic language website www.abouna.org and the 5th anniversary of the launching of the English language website www.en.abouna.org.

During the ceremony held at Le Royale Hotel, on Thursday, January 11, marking the anniversary--which began with the national anthem and was attended by minister, members of the Lower and Upper Houses of Parliament, a number of bishops, heads of various churches as well as first counselor for the Apostolic Nunciature in Amman Monsignor Mauro Lalli-- Archbishop Pizzaballa said it is important to have a media outlet and be able to express ourselves since this is a God-given right to human beings.

The Apostolic Administrator added that though it is important to have the freedom to express oneself, yet it is more important to focus on what should be said and the way it is expressed since there are certain ways and means to express a view that respects the dignity of others. He also said it is important to have views expressed explicitly and clearly.

CCSM Director Fr. Rif'at Bader announced that the Apostolic Administrator had earlier endorsed the launching of a CCSM consultative council to be chaired by His Excellency Dr. Raj'a Muasher and include a number of intellectuals.

The consultative council also includes a Latin Patriarchate priest, a Roman Catholic priest, a Greek Orthodox priest, HE Mr. Nabil Ghishan, HE Mr. Fayeq Hijazin, HE Mr. Jamil Nimri, HE Mr. Ramzi Khoury, HE Mr. Awni Bader, Dr. Adli Qandah, HE Mr. Azmi Shahin, HE Mr. Omar Abawi, HE Salim Odeh, HE Dr. Safa' Shweihat, HE Dr. Nahed Omaish, HE Rania Tadros, and HE Mona Makhamra.

Welcoming ministers, members of the Upper and Lower Houses of Parliament, bishops, heads and representatives of Churches, priests and nuns, journalists, and CCSM friends, Fr. Bader said: "Since 2012, the CCSM has had a vocal presence in Jordan and worldwide by transmitting news through its social media outlets including its 15-year-old Arabic language website www.abouna.org and the 5-year-old English language website www.en.abouna.org." He also thanked the CCSM members of staff who work assiduously even during weekends and holidays in implementation of the CCSM slogan "Media in the Service of Humanity" and its new slogan "Media for Humanity Through the Culture of Encounter".

Fr. Bader pointed out that the CCSM Consultative Council is an advisory body that assists in mapping out future plans and visions as well as in issuing statements on worthwhile issues that reflect goodness, beauty and truth in the context of the advanced dialogue led by the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan with which it is distinguished worldwide.

Concluding his address, Fr. Bader said:"Two days ago and at this very hall, the signing of the 'One Million Signature for Jerusalem' was initiated. We all talked about the Holy City and stressed that it is time to consolidate solidarity for Noble Jerusalem, for respecting its status quo and the relevant international covenants, and for reinforcing the Hashemite custodianship of the Holy City's Christian and Islamic sanctities. May God protect Jordan, may God protect His Majesty the King and the Hashemite custodianship of the Holy places. May God protect the Jordanian united family and our friends everywhere. Peace be upon you."

A CCSM documentary film was earlier screened which sheds light on the CCSM's spiritual, national and humanitarian objectives. The CCSM also hosted a dinner in honor of the guests and to mark the establishment of the Consultative Council in the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan.

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