Under the Patronage of the Patriarchal Vicar in Madaba and Representative of His Eminence Metropolitan Christophoros, Archimandrite Andreas Shamia, and Archbishop of the Catholic Church in India, Anil Thomas Couto
Tourism Sponsors the Lighting of the Christmas Tree at Mukawir
Mukawir – The archaeological site of Mukawir in Madaba Governorate witnessed the celebration of the lighting of the Christmas tree today, Tuesday, organized by the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities.
Speaking at the event on behalf of the Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, Lina Annab, the Director-General of the Jordan Tourism Board, Dr. Abdul Razzaq Arabiyat, stated that this event reflects the message of peace, love, and coexistence, embodying the values of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan.
The event saw a broad attendance, including the Patriarchal Vicar in Madaba, Archimandrite Andreas Shamia, representing His Eminence Metropolitan Christophoros, Archbishop of the Catholic Church in India Anil Thomas Couto, members of parliament and the senate, representatives of the Indian Embassy in Amman, residents of Al-Areed/Dhiban, along with security officials and the Mayor of Jabal Bani Hamida/Mukawir, Mohammad Al-Shakhabe.
Dr. Arabiyat emphasized, "The lighting of the Christmas tree is not merely an annual tradition but rather an expression of a greater message—the message of peace and love that is needed in this turbulent world."
He highlighted that Mukawir, one of the five holy sites recognized by the Vatican on the Christian pilgrimage route, stands as a testament to the deep spiritual values emanating from Jordan, a nation that has always been a vital part of the Holy Land.
Dr. Arabiyat pointed out that Jordan, under its wise Hashemite leadership, represents a model of pluralism and coexistence. He added, "In our beloved kingdom, where minarets and churches stand side by side, the greatness of our nation is evident in its diverse fabric, sending a message to the world that coexistence and harmony are achievable even amidst challenges."
He stressed the importance of promoting religious tourism, saying, "We must work together, combining efforts between the public and private sectors, to cement Jordan's status as a premier destination for religious tourism and ensure the continuation of events that showcase the bright image of Jordan as a land of peace and goodwill."
Dr. Arabiyat concluded his speech by extending greetings on the occasion of Christmas and calling for unity and solidarity in the face of challenges. He said, "Jordan will always remain a distinguished nation, with its greatness derived from the greatness of its builders—its authentic people and visionary leadership."
Archbishop Anil Joseph Thomas Couto of the Catholic Church in India, participating in the tree-lighting ceremony at Mukawir Castle, emphasized the significance of this occasion, embodying the values of love and peace.
He stated, "I am honored to be present today and to join the Jordan Tourism Board in lighting the Christmas tree at Mukawir Castle, the site of the beheading of John the Baptist. My visit has also included other significant Christian pilgrimage experiences, such as the Baptism Site (Bethany Beyond the Jordan), Mount Nebo, the Church of the Map, and the Church of the Beheading of John the Baptist in Madaba. It has been a rich religious tourism experience, and from here, we send messages of love and peace to this cherished homeland."
It is noteworthy that this event is part of a series of activities aimed at promoting Jordan as an integrated tourism destination, combining history, culture, and religious heritage, with a focus on attracting tourists from around the world.
