THE EMBRACE BLOG
How is Pentecost celebrated in the Middle East?
Our Christians friends and partners across the Middle East tell us how they will be celebrating Pentecost.
Why is Lebanon’s General Election so important?
On 15th May the citizens of Lebanon will go to the polls in an election many consider both hard to call and hugely important. Martin Accad, provides some fascinating context.
What is the Ceremony of Holy Light?
The Ceremony of Holy Light, or Ceremony of Holy Fire, is one of the most sacred rituals in Orthodox Christianity. But what happens and why is it so significant?
Lent in the Middle East
The observance of Lent , and the celebration of Easter, is a time of profound spiritual reflection for many Christians around the world. Here, in their own words, some of our partners reflect on how Eastern Christians mark this holy season in parts of the region.
International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation - what is FGM?
Sunday 6th February marks International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation (FGM). FGM is a global problem and constitutes an extreme form of discrimination against women and girls.
We Choose Abundant Life: the future of the Church in the Middle East
In September 2021 a document of major significance for the contemporary church in the Middle East, and all who care about its future, was published in Beirut, with the title We choose Abundant Life.
Why do many Orthodox Christians celebrate Christmas in January?
Many of our Christian partners belong to the Orthodox family of churches. Most Orthodox Christians in the Middle East will celebrate Christmas on 7th January, - but have you ever wondered how and why this difference came about?
Celebrating Al Hajj and Eid Al-Adha
This week, Muslims from across the Middle East (and elsewhere) will be participating in the Hajj – the annual pilgrimage to Makkah. They will also celebrate Eid Al-Adha or the ‘feast of the sacrifice’.
What was the outcome of the Israeli election?
On 23 March 2021 Benjamin Netanyahu and his Likud party won more Israeli Parliament (also known as the Knesset) seats (30) than any other party.