Amman:The Catholic Center for Studies and Media has expressed its approval of the Cabinet's decision to designate the Baptism Site of Jesus Christ, known as Al-Maghtas, as a nature reserve. This site, which spans 10 square kilometers, will now be part of Jordan's national network of protected areas. The center views this decision as a significant step in preserving the site's religious, historical, and environmental value.
According to Jordan News Agency, the center highlighted that this designation gains particular importance as Jordan approaches the 2,000th anniversary of Jesus Christ's baptism in 2030. Father Rifaat Bader, the center's director, emphasized that the Baptism Site is more than just a historical landmark or a destination for religious pilgrimage. He described it as a sacred location where Christian faith intersects with the natural environment, marking the site where Jesus was baptized by John the Baptist in the Jordan River.
Bader underscored the need for preservation efforts to extend beyond the site's archaeological and religious landmarks. He called for the inclusion of the area's natural surroundings, such as the river, valleys, vegetation, and biodiversity, which contribute to its identity and spiritual significance. He noted that Christian pilgrimage is not merely a journey to a holy site but also a spiritual experience aimed at renewing faith and fostering a closer connection with God.
Preserving the tranquility and natural landscape surrounding the Baptism Site, Bader added, would enhance the spiritual experiences of pilgrims and provide an environment conducive to prayer and reflection. He stated that this aligns with Christian teachings on humanity's responsibility to care for creation, referencing the Book of Genesis and Pope Francis' 2015 encyclical, Laudato Si', which links environmental protection with human dignity and justice across generations.
Bader pointed out that the preparations for the 2030 jubilee present an opportunity for Jordan to set a global example by integrating sustainable religious tourism with the preservation of natural and cultural heritage. The aim should be to provide a comprehensive pilgrimage experience that combines faith, history, and nature, showcasing Jordan's unique spiritual significance among Christian pilgrimage destinations worldwide.
He advocated for the development of environmentally sustainable pilgrimage routes and educational programs for visitors and tour guides that incorporate biblical, historical, and environmental perspectives. Such initiatives, he said, would raise pilgrims' awareness of the importance of protecting the site where Jesus was baptized.
Bader also expressed the readiness of the church and religious institutions to assist in preservation efforts, in coordination with relevant government authorities. Contributions could include awareness campaigns, educational activities, and volunteer initiatives involving young people, parishes, schools, and environmental organizations to protect the site, its waters, and biodiversity while respecting legal and administrative responsibilities.
Declaring the Baptism Site a nature reserve, Bader said, sends a message from Jordan to the world that preserving sacred places is intrinsically linked to protecting the natural environment. Genuine faith, he added, requires respecting creation and safeguarding the heritage passed down by previous generations.
The best preparation for the 2030 jubilee, Bader concluded, involves not only developing infrastructure and welcoming pilgrims but also protecting the land, water, and natural surroundings associated with this biblical event. He described the Baptism Site as a sacred responsibility and a Jordanian message of faith, peace, and spiritual renewal for future generations.
Source Jordan News Agency