Apostolic Nuncio Highlights Christian Legacy in Jordan

Amman, January 9, 2025: Archbishop Giovanni Pietro Dal Toso, the Apostolic Nuncio to Jordan, emphasized the enduring impact of the Christian heritage of Jordan on the Middle East during an interview with Vatican News on Wednesday. The interview took place after the archbishop had completed a presentation in Amman on the "Jordan: Dawn of Christianity" exhibition, which is set to debut in the Vatican later this month. The exhibition will showcase the historical roots of Christianity in the region. During the conversation, the archbishop also addressed the emotional toll of nearby conflicts on Jordan's Christian communities and reiterated the Vatican's commitment to fostering peace in the region.

“The Middle East would not be the Middle East without Christians,” remarked Archbishop Dal Toso, highlighting the substantial contributions of Christians to society in the region. He also described Jordan as a treasure trove of biblical and early Christian sites. He added that the "Jordan: Dawn of Christianity" exhibition aims to deepen Western understanding of this legacy and the integration of Christian communities into Arab culture.

Archbishop Dal Toso acknowledged the emotional challenges faced by Christians in Jordan due to regional conflicts. “A good part of the population here has Palestinian origins, and many have relatives across the Jordan,” he said, noting that the proximity to war amplifies their experience of its tragic nature. He commended Pope Francis for his unwavering calls for peace and dialogue, expressing hope that these appeals will influence efforts to achieve stability in the region.

The archbishop also highlighted the upcoming consecration of a new church at the site of the Baptism of our Lord Jesus, describing it as a powerful symbol of the Church’s solidarity with Middle Eastern Christians. “The visit by Cardinal Pietro Parolin to inaugurate the church underscores the significance of the site and also serves as a reminder that the Holy See cares for the Christian communities here,” he stated. He emphasized the continued contributions of Christians to Jordanian society, particularly in education, noting that many non-Christians attend Catholic schools.

Encouraging pilgrims to visit Jordan, especially during the Jubilee of Hope, Archbishop Dal Toso described the country as a welcoming destination. “Visiting the holy sites can renew our faith, which is the aim of the Holy Year,” he said, inviting Christians worldwide to witness Jordan's spiritual and historical significance firsthand.

Courtesy: Vatican News