Pope Francis has designated the Vatican Secretary of State, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, as Pontifical Legate for the consecration of a new church on the eastern bank of the Jordan River, at the historic site believed to be where Jesus was baptized.

In a letter addressed to Cardinal Parolin, Pope Francis quoted Lumen Gentium, emphasizing God’s desire to form a united people who acknowledge Him in truth and serve Him in holiness. The Cardinal is set to lead the Mass of Dedication and inauguration of the Church of the Baptism of the Lord on Friday, January 10, commemorating the 25th anniversary of the Catholic Church’s annual pilgrimage to Al-Maghtas, the Baptism site.

The dedication ceremony will include Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, and members of the Assembly of Catholic Ordinaries in the Holy Land. Representatives from Latin and Eastern Catholic Churches, along with other attendees, will also be present.

Pope Francis expressed the significance of this event for Jordanian Christians, celebrating the new church as a symbol of the enduring love and commitment of the Catholic Church to the faithful in the region. The Pope urged Cardinal Parolin to inspire the community to embody Christ’s teachings and to bear witness to faith, hope, and love.

In addition, the Pope extended his greetings to all participants, including civil authorities, members of other faiths, and supporters of religious freedom, peace, and human dignity.

The construction of the church, which began nearly 15 years ago, was made possible through the support of Nadim Muasher, a Knight of the Holy Sepulchre. The church stands as a tribute to his late son, Ayman, whose life was tragically cut short in a car accident near the Baptism site. The foundation stone was originally laid by Pope Benedict XVI during his visit on May 10, 2009.