The Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, Lina Annab, announced that preserving the Baptism Site, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a national and moral duty. She highlighted the efforts being made to ensure the site continues to welcome pilgrims from all over the world.

During the Christmas tree lighting ceremony at the Baptism Site, Annab emphasized that Jordan, as an integral part of the Holy Land, carries the message of peace that Christianity brought forth from this land to the world. She added: “Our nation is the source of this great message of tolerance and peace.”

Annab revealed that the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities plans to organize an exhibition in the Vatican in February 2025 to showcase rare artifacts that embody the Christian heritage, which originated in Jordan more than 2,000 years ago. She explained that the exhibition would serve as evidence of Jordan’s role as a protector and custodian of the world’s most important Christian sites.

Referring to current challenges, the Minister condemned the ongoing violations in Jerusalem, stating:

“Today’s celebration comes amidst great concern due to the attacks on the City of Peace. However, Jerusalem will remain the beacon of peace with its Christian and Muslim holy sites under the Hashemite Custodianship, a shared heritage for both Christians and Muslims alike.”

Annab called for solidarity among leaders and peoples to protect humanity’s shared heritage, asserting that attacks targeting the Holy Land do not only affect Jordan but also strike at the spiritual and historical legacy of all humanity.

On his part, Archimandrite Athanasius Qaqish, Deputy Archbishop of Jordan for the Greek Orthodox Church and Head of the Council of Church Leaders in Jordan, said that Christmas represents the embodiment of love and sacrifice. He urged everyone to prepare their hearts to welcome peace, purity, and genuine love—values that extend beyond mere words and are reflected in hard work and perseverance for a dignified life grounded in mutual respect among all segments of society.

In his speech during the celebration, Qaqish added:

“Today, we stand in this place that exudes the fragrance of holiness and to which the eyes of Christians around the world turn. It is the cradle of Christianity that spread from here to deliver its message of peace and love to the entire world.”