During Dr. Abu-Ghazaleh’s visit to Baptism Site of Jesus Christ: The Patriarchal Representative of Bethlehem Praises Dr. Abu-Ghazaleh’s Role in Supporting Christian Communities in Jordan

AMMAN – HE Dr. Talal Abu-Ghazaleh, founder and chairman of Talal Abu-Ghazaleh Global (TAG.Global), visited the Baptism Site of Jesus  Christ (Al-Maghtas) on the east bank of the Jordan River  (Epiphany Patriarchal Monastery), and was received by Metropolitan Venediktos, the Patriarchal Representative  in Bethlehem and the  Head of the Monastery. 

During the visit, Dr. Abu-Ghazaleh toured the Baptist Greek Orthodox Church, the Monastery and its facilities, in addition to the museum, during which the Director-General of the Baptism Site Commission, Eng. Rustom Mkhijan, gave a historical brief about the Al-Maghtas Site.

Meanwhile, Dr. Abu-Ghazaleh unveiled a plaque bearing his name in recognition of his support to the restoration of the monastery.

Dr. Abu-Ghazaleh further expressed his happiness on visiting such a religious site, pointing out the importance of this visit due to the human, religious and historical value the site represents.

He also praised the efforts of Bishop Venediktos , the Orthodox community in Jordan and all Christians in restoring the Site in accordance with the Royal vision, since it is considered an archeological world heritage site and a religious tourist destination.

For his part, Metropolitan Venediktos welcomed Dr. Abu-Ghazale’s visit, commending the role he plays in supporting Jordan's Christian communities in various areas based on his message of love, his vision of a better world and his support for the restoration of the monastery. He also presented to Dr. Abu-Ghazaleh a symbolic gift to express the monastery's gratitude for his ceaseless efforts.

At the end of the visit, the Jordanian Media advisor, Mr. Fuad Al-Karsheh, gave a brief about the role of the Roman Church in the Holy Land and the restoration and development of the Baptism site since 2000. In addition, he highlighted the efforts of the Orthodox Church and Bishop Venediktos in turning an arid place into a green landscape, stressing the importance of reconstructing the monasteries in such a unique and sacred place to become as it was hundreds of years ago, in order to receive Christian pilgrims and tourists from all over the world.

He went on to highlight the ongoing follow-up of His Royal Highness Prince Ghazi bin Muhammad, chief advisor for Religious and Cultural Affairs and Personal Envoy of His Majesty King Abdullah II and Chairman of Board of Trustees of Baptism Site Commission, on all details and needs related to the religious Site.