As the year 2033 approaches, marking two millennia since the death and Resurrection of Jesus, Jordan is keenly focusing on the upcoming 2030 commemoration of Jesus’ baptism at Bethany Beyond the Jordan. This site, recognized by UNESCO, is celebrated as the location where John baptized Jesus, initiating His public ministry.
(Photo: MK Associates in collaboration with Mostaqbal Engineering and Environmental Consultants and Design Workshop)
Jordan, under King Abdullah II’s rule, is gearing up for a grand celebration to mark 2,000 years since this pivotal biblical event. Emad Hijazin, the nation’s tourism and antiquities minister, revealed to Christian Daily International that plans are underway by the Baptism Site Commission, Ministry of Tourism, and the Royal Court to develop a comprehensive millennium commemoration program.
Hijazin, a Christian from Karak, is enthusiastic about collaborating with international Christian leaders, including the Rev. Botrus Mansour of Nazareth, the World Evangelical Alliance’s new secretary general. Mansour expressed his eagerness to cooperate with Jordanian officials, stating, “We in the World Evangelical Alliance are excited to see how we can work closely with the Jordanian authorities on this and other issues.”
Senator Michael Nazzal, leading the Tourism and Heritage Committee in the Jordanian Senate, highlighted the kingdom’s dedication to presenting this anniversary as an opportunity for global Christian unity. He mentioned, “Under the leadership of His Majesty King Abdullah II, we are enhancing infrastructure, expanding pilgrimage services, and working closely with church leaders worldwide to welcome visitors from all denominations.”
Local tourism stakeholders view the event as a means to rejuvenate an industry hit hard by various crises. Hanna Sawalha, who owns Nebo Tours, noted the challenges faced due to the COVID-19 pandemic and regional conflicts, but expressed optimism about future plans leading to the millennial celebration.
Tourism is crucial for Jordan’s economy, contributing approximately 11.4% to the GDP. The sector earned around 3.29 billion Jordanian dinars (about $4.6 billion) in 2017, as reported by the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities. The millennial events are expected to boost religious tourism, which has traditionally been centered on the nation’s cultural and natural attractions.
In preparation for the anticipated influx of pilgrims, Jordan is investing $100 million in creating a first-century Palestinian-style village near the Baptism Site, aiming to enhance the spiritual and historical experience for visitors, as detailed on Milhilard.org.
Jordan’s tourist sites include Petra, recognized as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World; Wadi Rum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning desert landscape; and the Dead Sea. The aim is for the Baptism Site to join these as key drivers of tourism growth, projected at 2% to 5% annually, with the finance minister forecasting a 2.9% growth rate by 2026.
Biblical archaeologists highlight that over 100 sites in Jordan are mentioned in biblical texts. The Baptism Site, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2015, is aligned with the Gospel’s reference to the area “beyond the Jordan” in John 1:28.
As Jordan prepares to become a focal point for Christian pilgrims, it aims to welcome millions while reaffirming its dedication to religious coexistence and safeguarding sacred Christian heritage.
This article was originally written by www.christiantoday.com
