On January 14, 2025, Cardinal Pietro Parolin concluded a fruitful visit to Jordan, where he presided over the inauguration of the Latin Baptism Church. His meetings with Jordan’s leaders and various Christian denominations emphasized the importance of coexistence and humanitarian efforts, highlighting Jordan’s role as a model of peace in the region.
On January 14, 2025, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Secretary of State of the Holy See, concluded his visit to Jordan, during which he officiated the Mass inaugurating the Latin Baptism Church of Christ at the Baptism site, commemorating the 25th anniversary of the Catholic Church’s National Pilgrimage. During his stay, the Cardinal met with His Majesty King Abdullah and Prime Minister Jafar Hassan, engaging in various events across pastoral, ecclesiastical, humanitarian, social, and tourism sectors, as detailed by the Catholic Centre for Studies and Media.
The Cardinal praised Jordan as a paragon of coexistence and recognized King Abdullah’s leadership in fostering the Christian community’s presence and promoting regional peace. He also held discussions with members of the Catholic churches in Jordan, including clergy and representatives from charitable organizations, reinforcing commitments to interfaith dialogue and Muslim-Christian harmony in the region.
Throughout his visit, Cardinal Parolin met with various Christian denominations, including Greek Orthodox and Lutherans, and emphasized the importance of the collaborative efforts to enhance humanitarian aid. He visited Caritas Jordan to observe their efforts in supporting refugees and vulnerable populations while also meeting with Apostolic Nuncio to Jordan, Giovanni Dal Toso, and papal representatives from 14 Middle Eastern nations.
Into his itinerary also included stops at several significant religious sites such as the Greek Orthodox Church of St. George in Madaba and the Shrine of St. John the Baptist. The visit underscored the Vatican’s ongoing commitment to fostering peace and unity among faith communities.
Cardinal Pietro Parolin’s visit to Jordan is significant not only for its ceremonial aspects but also for its emphasis on fostering interfaith dialogue and community resilience. The Latin Baptism Church is a critical site for Christian pilgrims and symbolizes Jordan’s dedication to preserving religious heritage. His meetings with Jordanian leaders and diverse Christian organizations underline the interconnectedness of peace efforts in the region and the Catholic Church’s commitment to supporting initiatives that promote coexistence among religious communities.
Cardinal Parolin’s visit to Jordan reinforced the Vatican’s dedication to promoting peace and interfaith collaboration in the region. Through key engagements with political and religious leaders, as well as humanitarian organizations, the Cardinal showcased Jordan as a model of coexistence. His presence during significant religious events highlights the Catholic Church’s ongoing support for the Christian community in Jordan and its commitment to fostering unity amidst diverse faiths.
Original Source: jordantimes.com
