Jerusalem Church begins preparations for 2,000th anniversary of Lord's Baptism

Patriarch Theophilos of Jerusalem blessing the waters of the Jordan River. Photo: Jerusalem Patriarchate

The Synod of the Jerusalem Patriarchate has begun preparations for the celebration of the 2,000th anniversary of the Lord's Baptism. The Church is organizing solemn events on the Jordan River for 2030.

Patriarch of Jerusalem Theophilos III presided over the Synod session on Thursday, August 13, 2026. The Synod members emphasized the special significance of the Jordan River, which received the Baptism of the Savior and was the place of the revelation of the mystery of the Most Holy Trinity. The Jerusalem Patriarchate plans to make every effort to hold celebrations befitting the holiness of this historic event.

The hierarchs welcomed the initiative of the Orthodox Churches and the favorable response of King Abdullah II ibn Al Hussein of Jordan. The monarch instructed the Jordanian government to give the necessary attention to the preparation of the church celebrations. The Synod expressed deep gratitude to the King and the Government of Jordan for their constant care for Christian holy sites.

Patriarch Theophilos III particularly highlighted the importance of opening the International Orthodox University at the site of the Baptism of Christ. The new institution of higher education has received the royal patronage of Jordan. According to the Primate, this first Orthodox university in the country will serve as a platform for enlightening the world with the light of Eastern theology and as a reliable bridge for dialogue between Churches and cultures.

As reported by the UOJ, Jordan signed agreements worth $120 million for the development of the site of Christ's Baptism.

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