Israel Begins Preparations for the 2000th Anniversary of the Baptism of the Lord
Israeli authorities have established a special working group to receive pilgrims and ensure freedom of religion in the Holy Land.
The Foreign Ministry of Israel has begun preparations for the 2000th anniversary of the Baptism of the Lord. Celebratory events on the Jordan River are planned for 2030. This was reported by Times of Israel.
Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar appointed George Deek, special envoy for relations with the Christian world, to lead the preparations. The group will establish dialogue with Churches and clergy around the world to organize an event of "deep spiritual significance" for two billion Christians worldwide. Government agencies are already coordinating efforts to receive pilgrims.
"Strengthening our relations with the Christian world and ensuring access to the Holy Land for millions of believers is one of Israel's highest priorities," said Gideon Sa'ar. The official promised that the country will guarantee the protection of freedom of religion and free access to holy sites for representatives of all denominations.
As the Union of Orthodox Journalists reported, Israeli authorities illegally seized land belonging to the Jerusalem Church in Silwan.
