The Power of Pilgrimages: Rediscovering the Holy Land in Jordan
During the World Interfaith Harmony Week, the Jordanian Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, Lina Annab, along with the Director of Jesus’ Baptism site, emphasized the significance of pilgrimages to Jordan. As the birthplace of Christianity, Jordan holds a special place in the hearts of believers worldwide.
Following the recent ceasefire deal between Hamas and Israel, the leaders of the Holy Land have called on the international community to resume pilgrimages to the region. Latin Patriarch Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa and Custos Fra Francesco Patton have assured that the Holy Land is safe for pilgrims and encouraged them to reconnect with their faith roots.
Jordan: Where Christianity Began
Minister Annab reiterated the invitation to visit Jordan, highlighting its historical importance as the birthplace of Christianity. She stressed the integral role of the Christian presence in Jordan’s identity and called for a revival of pilgrimages to the country.
Despite a decrease in visitor numbers in 2024 due to regional conflicts, Annab remains optimistic about the future. The recent inauguration of the exhibition “Jordan: Dawn of Christianity” at the Vatican showcases the rich Christian heritage of Jordan and offers a glimpse of its sacred sites to a global audience.
With the Jubilee Year of Hope underway and the ceasefire in place, Annab hopes for a resurgence in pilgrimages to Jordan. She believes that experiencing the spirituality and peace of the holy sites in Jordan can be a transformative journey for visitors.
Jordan: A Sanctuary of Peace
One of the most revered sites in Jordan is the Baptism of Jesus at Bethany Beyond the Jordan. The newly inaugurated Church of the Baptism of the Lord has been designated a pilgrimage site for the Jubilee Year, offering visitors a chance to receive indulgences.
Rustom Mkhjian, the Director of the Baptism site, envisions it as a symbol of love and peace for the world. He describes it as a place of ecumenism, where people of diverse backgrounds come together in unity and harmony.
As the world celebrates World Interfaith Harmony Week, the Baptism site stands as a beacon of dialogue and communion. Mkhjian envisions a future where people of different faiths can come together and find solace in a shared spiritual experience.
Ultimately, Jordan serves as not just a destination for pilgrimages but a place of hope and interfaith encounters. It is a land where the roots of Christianity run deep, inviting believers from all walks of life to rediscover the sacredness of their faith.
