06 November 2024 | Maruševec, Croatia [tedNEWS with Dragutin Matak]
On 6 November 2024, the Adriatic Union College (Adventističko Teološko Visoko Učilište) in Maruševec, Croatia, hosted a delegation of religious representatives from the Islamic Republic of Iran. This historic meeting underscored the shared spiritual heritage between the Iranian guests and the Adventist community, highlighting connections rooted in biblical and Persian history.
The seven-member delegation, representing various religious and governmental institutions, was led by Dr Abdulsalam Karimi, Advisor to the President of Iran on Ethnic Groups and Religious Minorities. In his remarks, Dr Karimi stressed the importance of balanced education and spiritual understanding, noting the lack of these qualities in many global leaders.
A Tradition of Dialogue
This meeting builds on a series of engagements between Croatian Adventist leaders and Iranian representatives, including a 2016 religious delegation visit to Iran and subsequent meetings in 2017. Reflecting on these opportunities for dialogue, organisers emphasised the importance of patience, trust, and shared spiritual values in fostering meaningful relationships. One of the Iranian representatives noted that such meetings highlight humanity’s shared foundation.
“During our meeting, we did not mention political matters even once, nor did we discuss the American presidential elections,” commented Dr Dragutin Matak, a Croatian pastor recognised for his work in human rights and religious liberty. “This certainly does not mean that those who believe in God have nothing to say about political events. On the contrary,” he shared, explaining that the model for global leadership is not found in liberal capitalism or authoritarian regimes, “but in living under the banner of unconditional love, joy, optimism, peace, patience, gentleness, goodness, faithfulness, meekness, and self-control.”
The gathering resonated with biblical themes, drawing parallels between the Persian rulers of antiquity and modern efforts to foster peace and understanding. The Prophet Isaiah’s words about King Cyrus, described as God’s “anointed one,” were cited as an example of divine favour extended beyond Jewish rulers. This historical connection served as a reminder of the role faith can play in bridging divides.
The event also featured contributions from Croatian religious leaders and representatives, including Zlatko Musija, President of the Adriatic Union Conference of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, and Radenko Džuver, Dean of the Adriatic Union College.
Gifts and Messages of Unity
The meeting concluded with the exchange of gifts, symbolising goodwill and mutual respect. Each Iranian representative received a Persian-language copy of Patriarchs and Prophets, written by Adventist pioneer Ellen G. White, and detailing shared biblical history. The delegation expressed appreciation for the chapters dedicated to the life of Abraham. Additionally, the visitors were gifted a picture book of Croatian castles and gardens, a health-focused booklet reflecting Adventist values, and halal-labelled Kraš Bajadera chocolates, a Croatian delicacy.
Dr Saeid Khatibzadeh, Iran’s Ambassador to Croatia, reciprocated with handcrafted blue vases, emblematic of Iran’s rich cultural heritage. His address reflected enthusiasm for the dialogue and gratitude for the hospitality extended by the Adventist community.
Delegation Members
The delegation of religious representatives from the Islamic Republic of Iran included:
- Dr Abdulsalam Karimi, Advisor to the President of Iran on Ethnic Groups and Religious Minorities.
- Ms Behshid Barkhordar, a Zoroastrian parliamentarian who shared insights into her community’s ancient religion, rooted in the teachings of Ahura Mazda.
- Mr Ara Shaverdian, an Armenian Christian MP, who warmly invited Croatian representatives to visit Iran.
- Rabbi Dr Yunus Hamami Lalezar, a leader of Iran’s Jewish community, who has publicly distanced himself from Israeli political actions.
- His Excellency Marnerasai Benjamin Mavaneh, Archbishop of the Eastern Assyrian Church, who reconnected with Croatian hosts he had met during a previous visit.
- His Excellency Vania Sarkizelham, Bishop of the Chaldean Catholic Church, representing the Eastern Rite.
- Ali Asghar Ameri Bafghi, Deputy Director of the Centre for Dialogue of Civilizations and Cultures, who engaged in conversations about shared human and spiritual values.
[Photos: Zlatko Jukić]
