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King Abdullah II Meets with Christian Leaders
on Second Day of Official U.S. Visit

Jordan Leader Refers to Pastors as “Weapons of Good”; Emphasizes importance of FTA as Future is Peace, Hope and Prosperity, Not Politics

WASHINGTON, D.C., April 4 – King Abdullah II, King of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, met today with more than 60 evangelical Christian leaders – whom he referenced as “Weapons of Good” – to discuss the vital role they can play in working towards peace and prosperity in the Middle East.

“We are in Washington to see how we can bridge the gap between the Israelis and the Palestinians.” King Abdullah said.  “You preach a good message and I wish you all success.  We need to hear your voice, we need to stand together; I urge you to take up the call of peace.  The hardest battle is not the battle for war, but for peace.”

His Majesty told the group of influential leaders that his father, the late King Hussein, used to say peace was needed for our children and our children's children.  “I'd like to amend that, as we don't have time to waste for peace later...,” he said,  “we now need peace for ourselves, our children and our children's children.” 

When asked what message he would like pastors to convey from pulpits to Christians across America this Sunday, the King replied, “The violence has to stop.  Pray  that parties in conflict can see the light; we want them to come together.  So many people want peace and prosperity, but they are a silent majority whose voices must be heard.  We need courage to work for a better life for all of us – Jews, Christians and Muslims.  Don't lose hope in us, and don't let us lose hope in ourselves.”

King Abdullah explained how Jordan has been successful in creating an environment of equality, where Muslims and Christians can live in harmony.  He reiterated that if it worked in Jordan, strong voices for peace, tolerance and understanding could help it happen elsewhere, like in Jerusalem.  “Jerusalem is a religious place which should be a symbol of peace and hope for the future,” he said.

King Abdullah encouraged the leaders to come to Jordan, which represents a vital part of the Holy Land for tourism, especially religious tourism.  “Jordan has always been a stable country, with enough resources to make a great impact,” he said.  “Whatever political events are taking place in the region have no impact on the stability of Jordan.  Most of the Holy Men of the three Abrahamic religions are buried on the Jordan side of the (Jordan) River.  Every day, we uncover new Christian Churches, and although it is a lot of work, it is worth it.”

When asked about his meetings with President Bush next week, King Abdullah said the Free Trade Agreement with the United States is an important issue to Jordan.  His Majesty said he would ask the American People to push for its ratification.  “The future is economic peace, hope and prosperity, not politics,” he said.  “A prosperous economy leads to people living with open hearts and open minds.”

Pastor Benny Hinn, who, along with Northwest College President Don Argue and Pastor Jack Hayford convened the meeting, told the group, “For many years we have had one arm around Israel.  Now it is time to put the other around the Arabs.”

His Majesty ended the session by telling the Christian leaders, “We speak the same language but in different tongues.”

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