You might be aware that a new temple is under construction in Abu Dhabi, but did you know there’s more? Yes, the latest we hear is that a new church will be built near the Hindu temple. Once completed, the new church will be a spiritual home for generations of Indian worshippers. Construction of the Church of South India, will begin soon.
What’s It?
Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces has granted four acres of land for the construction of a new church.
A brand new church will soon be constructed in the Abu Mureikha area of the capital. Docked right next to the Hindu temple under construction, the Church of South India will serve as a spiritual home to Protestants. The architecture of the church will have Islamic design elements, featuring tall, narrow windows and an arched doorway.
The church will boast earthy tones of beige and white on the exterior, along with an octagon-shaped roof that allows the sun’s rays to stream in.
The construction is estimated to cost AED 9 million, which will be from donations and well-wishers. This will be the second shrine for the Church of South India, with the first one in Fujairah. The foundation stone laying ceremony was held this weekend and the church will open doors to the public in 2021.
What Else?
Following the historic visit of Pope Francis in the month of February, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi announced an initiative to promote interfaith harmony. UAE will soon boast a mosque, a church and a Synagogue, right next to each other.
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The new landmark will be part of Abu Dhabi’s Saadiyat Island. The Abrahamic Family House (Inspired by Prophet Abraham), will feature a mosque, church and a synagogue- all under one roof, permitting people from different faiths to unite in the harmony and purity of worship.
The mosque faces the Kaaba in Makkah, the church’s points east towards the sun, and the synagogue faces Jerusalem. This is one of UAE’s best initiatives marking the Year of Tolerance and we truly can’t be prouder!
First Published: December 09, 2019 10:27 AM