A Pastoral Visit of Love and Harmony: His Beatitude Cardinal Pizzaballa in Northern Zarqa
This news is shared from the website of the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem.
His Beatitude Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, began his pastoral visit to Northern Zarqa in the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan on Thursday, February 13, 2025, which continued until Sunday, February 16, 2025.
Day One – The Official Welcome
Cardinal Pizzaballa was warmly received in the Zarqa Governorate by Fr. Eyad Bader, the parish priest of Zarqa North, Fr. Ruben Cabrera, the vicar priest, Dr. Firas Abu Qaoud, the Governor of Zarqa, and Dr. Hail Al-Ayash, Deputy Governor, along with the priests of Zarqa from various churches, municipal and central council members, and directors of security and official institutions.
While welcoming the Cardinal, the Governor of Zarqa expressed his appreciation for this significant visit, stating: "It is a great pleasure to have you with us. In this country, there is no distinction between Muslims and Christians; we are all united as brothers in God. Consider this your second home."
Cardinal Pizzaballa, in turn, commended the vital role of His Majesty King Abdullah II in navigating the region's challenging circumstances. He stated, "We are grateful for His Majesty’s safe return from the United States and appreciate his steadfast efforts in maintaining security and stability in the kingdom through his wise leadership." He further added, "My visit to the Zarqa parish is an opportunity to spend three days engaging with the faithful, meeting various community members, and reaffirming the significance of unity in strengthening our communities."
Dr. Hail Al-Ayash also emphasized that His Beatitude's visit enhances societal values and bonds of love and fraternity, noting that it coincides with the Week of Interfaith Harmony in Jordan.
Later, an official and popular reception was held in front of the Church of the Apostles in Northern Zarqa, where His Beatitude was welcomed by the priests, along with the parish council, the faithful, students of the Patriarchal Latin School, the administrative and teaching staff, and the youth, all in a festive atmosphere led by the parish scouts.
The first day concluded with a visit to the Latin Patriarchate's nursery. Later, His Beatitude the Cardinal joined the Marian Fraternity in praying the Rosary, followed by a meeting with various pastoral group leaders, during which he learned in depth about their activities, concerns, and future endeavors.
Day Two – World Day of the Sick in Zarqa
His Beatitude presided over the Mass for World Day of the Sick at the Church of the Apostles, where he administered the Anointing of the Sick to several parishioners.
During his homily, he reflected on the journey of life and aging, emphasizing God's presence in the sacraments and His active role in the lives of the faithful: "We live in a society that strives for perfection and refuses to face sickness and old age, as though they are not part of our lives. But we all know that one day we will face illness, aging, or loneliness." He added: "Jesus Christ is always with us, and the Anointing of the Sick with holy oil is a sign of His presence. Every time we visit a sick person, we bring them the consolation of Jesus."…
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This news was originally published on the website of the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem, click here to read more.