Vatican diplomat ignites debate by consecrating church at Jesus' baptism site

In Jordan, during a significant three-day visit, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican's secretary of state, consecrated the Church of the Baptism of the Lord at Al-Maghtas, recognized as the location where John the Baptist baptized Jesus. The event attracted thousands of attendees, including Jordanians, Palestinians, and diplomats, marking a milestone in the Catholic Church's acknowledgment of this holy site. The ceremony highlighted the 25th anniversary of the Catholic Church's annual pilgrimage to this location, emphasizing its importance to Christian heritage and community in the region. During the ceremony, Cardinal Parolin delivered a homily, emphasizing the Catholic Church's commitment to the Christian communities of the Middle East. He expressed gratitude to the Jordanian royal household and government for their stewardship of this site. This was presented as an essential moment for encouraging peace and solidarity amid ongoing turmoil in the region, underscoring the role of Christians in fostering a just society. In conjunction with the consecration, a new exhibition titled "Jordan: Dawn of Christianity" featuring 90 Jordanian artifacts will debut at the Vatican in February to celebrate Jordan's rich biblical history. This exhibition aims to enhance awareness of Christianity's origins in Jordan and marks 30 years of diplomatic relations between Jordan and the Holy See. Therefore, it plays a crucial part in showcasing the enduring presence of Christian heritage in Jordan. Furthermore, the consecration involved Cardinal Parolin anointing the altar of the new church, where the relics of Pope St. John Paul II and other recently canonized saints will be housed. The introduction of this church and related historical exhibits emphasizes the Vatican's strong connection to Jordan's Christian legacy and reinforces the significance of preserving and promoting the nation's rich historical and religious heritage.