The Fourth Academic Study Day on Emerging Human Life
From the Spirit of God to Human Hands!
The “Janiin” Association organized the fourth academic study day on emerging human life, in partnership with the Higher Institute of Religious Studies at Saint Joseph University – Beirut and the Bible Society. The day offered a rich dialogue bridging faith and science, sacred texts and human reality, aiming to shed light on human ethical and rights-based responsibilities toward emerging life and the dignity of the unborn, from both Christian and Islamic perspectives.
The event took place on Saturday, November 22, 2025, at the Bible Society Center – Bouchrieh, and opened with welcoming speeches by Sister Professor Yara Matta, Director of the Higher Institute of Religious Sciences at Saint Joseph University, Dr. Mike Bassous, General Secretary of the Bible Society, and Father Professor Edgard El-Haiby, founder and president of the “Janiin” Association for Supporting Couples Facing Fertility Challenges.
The study day included theological and scientific presentations on Christian and Islamic texts related to emerging life, delivered by Sheikh Muhammad Al-Naqri, Dr. Nicolas Abu Mrad, Dr. Sawsan Sallouh, and His Excellency Archbishop Elie Haddad, with participation from Dr. Ahmad Al-Zoabi, who moderated one of the sessions.
After the morning sessions, participants enjoyed a lunch in an atmosphere of warmth and constructive interaction, allowing them to network and exchange experiences in a spirit of deep human solidarity.
The conference welcomed more than fifty participants, both in-person and via Zoom, providing a broader platform for engagement and diverse perspectives. Participants also engaged in discussions on fertility and infertility from their human and personal dimensions, expressing their interests, projects, and reflections on the topic.
During the event, copies of the book “Proceedings of the Study Days on Fertility and Emerging Human Life in Sacred Texts and Religious Traditions – Volume One,” held in 2024, as well as “The Family Bible” were distributed free of charge to participants.
We give thanks to God for His blessings and guidance throughout this journey, and we extend our gratitude to all the speakers, organizers, and participants who made this day possible and impactful. We hope that these initiatives will continue to enrich academic research, enhance spiritual and social awareness, and support the care of human life from its earliest stages with respect, love, and dignity.