Muslims and Christians unite under Christmas tree on site of Jesus' baptism

Jordan is celebrating Christmas and the peaceful relations between Christians and Muslims there by lighting up a 12-metre tree at the site popularly believed to be the location of Jesus' baptism.

The celebration, held on Sunday at a Lutheran church which stands on the baptism site on the Jordan River, focused on sending a message of peace and involved a performance by the Jordanian police band.

The event was hosted by the president of the Lutheran World Federation in Shouneh, who said: "It is a national day when we are lighting this tree to tell the world that living together Muslims and Christians is possible.

"Jordan has become a model and it is possible in Jordan, it can be possible all over the world."

Newsletter Stay up to date with Christian Today
News
Who was Mother Julian of Norwich and why is she important?
Who was Mother Julian of Norwich and why is she important?

8 May is the traditional day to remember Mother Julian of Norwich. She is important because her book remains a classic of Christian spirituality and is the first book in English known to have been written by a woman. This is her story …

'Dark day' as retired pastor is convicted for preaching John 3:16 near abortion facilities
'Dark day' as retired pastor is convicted for preaching John 3:16 near abortion facilities

A retired pastor has been found guilty of breaching an abortion clinic 'safe access zone' after he preached a sermon on John 3:16. 

'Managerial' secularism becoming commonplace across Europe, says rights group
'Managerial' secularism becoming commonplace across Europe, says rights group

Human Rights Without Frontiers (HRWF) says that governmental restrictions on religions freedom have reached their highest level in Europe in two decades.

Faith plays key role in young people’s mental wellbeing - study
Faith plays key role in young people’s mental wellbeing - study

A new study suggests that religion can play a significant role in shaping the mental health and emotional resilience of young people, particularly when it is expressed through positive coping practices.