His Eminence Cardinal Pietro Parolin inaugurating the Church of the Baptism of the Lord At the Jordan river with the presence of His Beatitude Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa
This news is shared from the website of the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem.
On Friday, January 10, 2025, the Catholic Church celebrated a historic milestone with the inauguration of the Church of the Baptism of Christ on the banks of the Jordan River at Al-Maghtas. The pontifical mass was led by His Eminence Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Secretary of State of the Holy See, representing His Holiness Pope Francis. Among the distinguished attendees were His Beatitude Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, bishops, priests, and church leaders, including former Patriarch Fouad Twal, Archbishop Giovanni Pietro Dal Toso, Apostolic Nuncio to Jordan, Msgr. William Shomali, Patriarchal Vicar General, and Bishop-elect Iyad Twal, Patriarchal Vicar in Jordan. The event was also graced by His Royal Highness Prince Ghazi bin Muhammad, Chief Advisor to His Majesty the King for Religious and Cultural Affairs.
This landmark event coincided with the silver jubilee of pilgrimage to the Baptism Site, drawing a large gathering of local believers, pilgrims, apostolic movements, and scout groups. The mass was elevated by the participation of seminarians from Beit Jala and the Sacred Heart Choir of Tla’ Al-Ali, supported by meticulous organization from civil and security authorities.
Press Conference Highlights
Before the mass, Cardinal Pizzaballa addressed the annual press conference, emphasizing the new church’s role as a global religious landmark and a sacred pilgrimage destination. He called for prayers for peace in the region and worldwide. Her Excellency Lina Annab, Jordan’s Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, commended the successful culmination of this 15-year project, noting the significance of the site, blessed by three Popes.
The Official Opening of the Church
A celebratory procession, featuring the scout, led bishops and priests to the entrance of the new church. Cardinal Pizzaballa expressed heartfelt gratitude to His Majesty King Abdullah II for his efforts in preserving the Baptism Site and to Prince Ghazi bin Muhammad for his unwavering support. He also acknowledged the dedication of Mr. Nadim Muasher, the church’s architect, and the support of the Hungarian government.
In his remarks, Cardinal Pizzaballa described the new church as a sacred space for prayer, reflection, faith, and peace, inviting all to make a pilgrimage to this holy site. "This church," he noted, "is a gift from the local Church to friends worldwide, offering blessings from the River Jordan." He further lauded the Congregation of the Incarnate Word (IVE) for assuming spiritual service responsibilities at the church…
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This news was originally published on the website of the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem, click here to read more.