Choosing Forgiveness: A Journey Towards Peace
After a poignant meeting with Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican, Palestinian Aziz Abu Sarah and Israeli Maoz Inon delved into their inspiring stories in an exclusive interview at Vatican Radio studios.
By Roberto Cetera and Deborah Castellano Lubov
“I made the choice to choose forgiveness, not because that person deserved it, but because it’s my choice, and I want to be free,” shared Palestinian American Aziz Abu Sarah, reflecting on the tragic loss of his brother at a young age.
Having grown up in Jerusalem, Aziz initially harbored feelings of bitterness and revenge after his brother’s arrest and subsequent death. However, after years of grappling with these emotions, he realized that choosing hate and revenge only made him a slave to the person who had caused his pain.
Determined to break free from this cycle of hatred, Aziz decided to dedicate his life to peace. Partnering with Israeli Maoz Inon, the two tourism professionals co-founded InterAct, an organization committed to fostering peace in the region.
Fr. Faltas’ Mission in the Holy Land
Joining them in their mission is Father Ibrahim Faltas, a dedicated peacemaker in the Holy Land who has spearheaded numerous projects aimed at bridging divides and promoting reconciliation.
A Vision for Peace by 2030
Aziz and Maoz emphasized how their personal experiences in the Holy Land shaped their commitment to peace. They recounted their recent encounters with Pope Leo XIV and Pope Francis, highlighting the importance of dialogue and collaboration in achieving lasting peace.
Sharing his own heartbreaking story, Maoz recounted the loss of his parents in a tragic attack. Despite his profound grief, he envisioned a future where tears of sorrow could heal wounds and pave the way for reconciliation.
Together, Aziz and Maoz embarked on a five-step plan to realize peace in the region by 2030. Their strategy involves dreaming together, practicing shared values, building coalitions, mapping out a path to peace, and taking concrete action.
Marching Towards Change
As part of their efforts, Aziz and Maoz announced plans for a massive March for Peace on September 21st, the International Day of Peace. They invited individuals from all backgrounds to join them in Jerusalem to symbolize unity and solidarity in the quest for peace.
Reflecting on their encounters with the Popes, Aziz and Maoz expressed gratitude for the support and inspiration they received. They are determined to carry forward the message of peace and reconciliation, guided by the vision of a harmonious future for all.
Join us in our journey towards peace, as we strive to break down barriers, foster understanding, and build a future where forgiveness and compassion reign supreme.
