It was always the dream and vision of Integral Yoga founder Sri Swami Satchidananda, that interfaith understanding would become a major pathway toward world peace and harmony. He created the Light Of Truth Universal Shrine to demonstrate the principles of interfaith understanding and to give those who visit it an immersion into this experience. So, it is with great delight that we share the news of a similar vision as demonstrated by The Abrahamic Family House in Abu Dhabi.
The House will be a beacon of mutual understanding, harmonious coexistence, and peace among people of faith and goodwill. It consists of a mosque, church, synagogue, and educational center to be built on Saadiyat Island, the cultural heart of Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates. Through its design, it captures the values shared between Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, and serves as a powerful platform for inspiring and nurturing understanding and acceptance between people of goodwill. The vision for the Abrahamic Family House originated after the signing of the Document on Human Fraternity by Pope Francis and Grand Imam Ahmed Al-Tayeb in February 2019. This landmark will be a place for learning, dialogue, and worship – open to all and a true reflection of the UAE’s belief in tolerance and hospitality.
Within each of the houses of worship, visitors will have the opportunity to learn about religious services, listen to holy scripture, and experience sacred rituals. A fourth space—not affiliated with any specific religion—will be an educational center where all people can come together as a single community devoted to mutual understanding and peace. The Abrahamic Family House will host a variety of programming and events—from daily religious services to international summits. Currently under construction, the project’s anticipated completion date is in 2023 and will be one of several undertakings the Higher Committee of Human Fraternity will advise upon.