Jordan is commemorating the 25th anniversary of Pope St. John Paul II’s historic pilgrimage to the Holy Land, from March 20 to 26, 2000. This significant event marked the first papal visit to Jordan in over 35 years, following Pope Saint Paul VI’s visit in 1964.
During his visit, Pope John Paul II emphasised the importance of forgiveness and faith, praising Jordan’s religious freedom, which allows citizens to work together for the country’s good. The Pope’s visit also highlighted the significance of the Baptism Site on the eastern bank of the Jordan River, which was inaugurated during his pilgrimage.
To mark the 25th anniversary, Jordan has inaugurated a new church at the Baptism Site, which was completed in time for the 2025 Jubilee celebrations. This church is one of the largest in the Middle East and reflects Jordan’s efforts to promote Christian heritage and tourism in the region.
The pilgrimage and the new church serve as a testament to the strong ties between Jordan and the Vatican, as well as Jordan’s commitment to interfaith dialogue and cooperation.