Amman: Thousands of Christian pilgrims gathered on Friday to mark the 26th annual Catholic pilgrimage at the Baptism Site located on the eastern bank of the Jordan River. This site is widely recognized by churches and Christian traditions as the location where John the Baptist baptized Jesus Christ, making it one of the holiest Christian locations globally.
According to Jordan News Agency, Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Imad Hijazin emphasized that the Christian message to the world originated from Jordan. He highlighted that the Kingdom has historically served as a safe haven for Christians, continuing to protect their holy sites while showing respect and responsibility for places of worship. Hijazin pointed out that the Baptism Site represents Jordan's values of coexistence and religious tolerance, reflecting its crucial role in preserving humanity's shared religious heritage.
Director General of the Baptism Site Commission Eng. Rustem Mkhjian noted the site's global uniqueness due to its spiritual and human significance. It historically encompasses the presence of five prophets: Joshua bin Nun, Prophet Elijah, Prophet Elisha, John the Baptist, and Jesus Christ. Mkhjian explained that the site has been protected by Muslims throughout history, showcasing coexistence and respect for religious sanctities, which forms a cornerstone of its moral and symbolic value.
Mkhjian also mentioned that the site was discovered in 1995 after landmines were found and cleared from the area to secure it for pilgrims. The Board of Trustees of the Baptism Site was established in 1999, chaired by Prince Ghazi bin Muhammad, to safeguard and manage its sanctity and historical authenticity. The site aligns with biblical texts and archaeological evidence, consistent with the Madaba Mosaic Map documented in the Church of St. George in Madaba.
He further elaborated that the site's messages resonate with the principles of the Amman Message, the "A Common Word" initiative, and global interfaith harmony efforts. It has become a platform for fostering love and peace among different religious followers, reinforcing Jordan's role as a land of religious dialogue.
Meanwhile, Father Rifaat Bader, Director of the Catholic Center for Studies and Media, emphasized the profound spiritual significance of the pilgrimage for Christians worldwide. He noted that Jordan's stewardship of this sacred site, managed with openness and responsibility, sends a clear message that faith can unite rather than divide.
The Baptism Site, with its rich history and humanitarian messages, stands as a testament to Jordan's legacy as a land of divine messages, peace, and religious harmony, attracting pilgrims from around the world.