The University of Sciences and Arts in Lebanon-USAL organized a dialogue seminar addressing the shared missionary and human values in the lives of Lady Fatima al-Zahra and Lady Mary (peace be upon them). The seminar featured His Eminence Sayyid Ali Fadlallah and Father Dr. Michel Qanbar, and was moderated by Dr. Mohammad Tarraf. The event was attended by the President of the University’s Board of Trustees, Dr. Mohammad Baker Fadlallah; the President of the University, Dr. Mohammad Rida Fadlallah; the Shepherd of the Diocese of Haret Hreik, Father Issam Ibrahim; the General Coordinator of the Islamic–Christian Dialogue, Mr. Naji Khoury; the Mayor of Haret Hreik, Mr. Ziad Waked; in addition to a number of spiritual, religious, municipal, and social figures, as well as members of the academic and administrative bodies and students of the university.
The seminar focused on drawing inspiration from the values of excellence and innovation, social responsibility, dialogue, and acceptance of cultural diversity embodied by the two revered figures. It highlighted Lady Mary’s distinction through courageous faith and steadfastness in the face of challenges, and Lady Fatima al-Zahra’s ethical and social innovation and her defense of justice and rights. Emphasis was placed on the importance of assuming responsibility toward society and the university environment, transforming differences into opportunities for integration and growth, strengthening responsible dialogue skills, respecting cultural and intellectual diversity, and building a university space founded on human encounter rather than polarization.
At the opening of the seminar, His Eminence Sayyid Ali Fadlallah spoke about the value of women in Islam and their active role in society and in contributing to its development. He underscored the importance of encounter and dialogue among members of the same nation, stressing the need to draw inspiration from the missionary values embodied by Lady Fatima al-Zahra and Lady Mary—particularly resilience in the face of challenges, perseverance, and the courage to express one’s views—and how students should draw upon these values to achieve excellence, creativity, and innovation. In responding to questions from the audience, he emphasized the importance of individual and collective initiatives that promote and practice values, whether within the university or across the nation as a whole.
In turn, Father Dr. Michel Qanbar spoke about the importance of drawing inspiration from the missionary values of Lady Mary and Lady Fatima al-Zahra. He presented insights into the life of Lady Mary, highlighting her distinction in societal engagement, responsibility, and overcoming difficulties. He called on students to build upon these examples in their journey toward excellence and innovation, and to commit to ongoing encounter and dialogue, starting from the university and extending throughout the nation.
At the conclusion of the event, the President of the University and the President of the Board of Trustees presented a commemorative artistic plaque as a token of appreciation and gratitude to Father Michel Qanbar.
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