Jordan prepares to mark 2000 years since Jesus’ baptism

The year 2030 will mark two millennia since the traditional date of Jesus’ baptism by John the Baptist, which took place in what is now Al-Maghtas, Jordan. 

On August 10, Jordanian Prime Minister Jafar Hassan chaired the first meeting of the National Committee for the Preparation of the Celebration of the Second Millennium of the Baptism of Jesus Christ. 

The committee, which includes ministers, religious and community leaders, and representatives of relevant institutions, serves as the national reference point for preparing and overseeing the commemoration.

During the meeting, Mr Hassan stressed the need to immediately begin preparations in line with the directives of King Abdullah II of Jordan to support the initiative put forward by the Council of Church Leaders in that nation.

Mr Hassan said commemorating the second millennium of the baptism of Jesus Christ reflects Jordan’s historical and religious standing and its role as a global destination for Christian pilgrimage, while highlighting the kingdom’s message of coexistence, respect for others, peace, love and human fraternity.

The meeting reviewed plans by the Foundation for the Development of Lands Adjacent to the Baptism Site to implement several projects, including an integrated village for Christian pilgrims and visitors, a museum dedicated to the Baptism of Jesus Christ, a green corridor and infrastructure upgrades at the site.

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Jordan begins preparations for 2,000-year anniversary of Jesus’ baptism (Vatican News)