A delegation, led by Anil Joseph Thomas Couto, Archbishop of Delhi, alongside Gershombhai Khristi, Auxiliary Secretary of the North West India Auxiliary & Allahabad Auxiliary Bible Society of India, was recently invited to Jordan to participate in Christmas celebrations.

In a press statement, the Jordan Tourism Board states that the delegation’s spiritual journey comprised a visit to Bethany Beyond the Jordan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where it is believed that Jesus was baptised by John the Baptist. The group also attended Mass at this sacred site before moving on to Mount Nebo, where Moses is said to have viewed the Land of Canaan.

Archbishop Couto

“To stand at the site where Jesus was baptised is a powerful reminder of the deep roots our faith has in this land. Mount Nebo is a place where the past, present, and future converge,” says Archbishop Couto.

The group visited the Saint George’s Church in Madaba, renowned for its 6th-century mosaic map of the Holy Land, which provides insight into the region’s rich Christian heritage. They also attended the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony at Mukawir, a historic site linked to John the Baptist’s beheading at King Herod’s palace, Mukawir Palace, where they reflected on the significance of the season.

Abed Al-Razzaq Arabiyat

“Jordan has long been a land of profound religious and historical significance. We are honoured to welcome such distinguished religious leaders to witness our sacred sites, which continue to inspire pilgrims and visitors from around the world,” says Abed Al-Razzaq Arabiyat, Managing Director, Jordan Tourism Board.

The tour included visits to Ajloun, home to the historic Ajloun Castle and the Tall Mar Elias, the home of Prophet Elijah.

Additionally, the delegation attended Mass at Latin Patriarchate and at gatherings with the children at Our Lady of the Mount Church in Anjara and partook lunch at the Church. The pilgrimage concluded with an ecumenical dialogue at the Latin Patriarchate of Amman, promoting unity among various Christian denominations.

“This journey has not only allowed us to connect with the roots of our faith but also to experience the warmth and hospitality of Jordan,” adds Archbishop Couto.

The statement adds that the visit aimed to reinforce the spiritual connection between India and Jordan, offering a profound opportunity for cultural and religious exchange.