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."

News
European court accused of overreach after ruling against Poland in disability abortion case
European court accused of overreach after ruling against Poland in disability abortion case

The European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) has come under criticism after ruling against Poland in a case concerning abortion on the grounds of disability. 

Christians invited to start 2026 in prayer for the nation
Christians invited to start 2026 in prayer for the nation

A nationwide prayer initiative involving thousands of churches and Christians is set to take place at the start of the New Year.

Terrorist attack on church-run clinic in eastern DRC leaves dozens dead
Terrorist attack on church-run clinic in eastern DRC leaves dozens dead

A late-night assault on a Catholic health facility in northeastern Democratic Republic of Congo has left around 20 civilians dead.

Calls for prayer as court hears sacked chaplain's appeal
Calls for prayer as court hears sacked chaplain's appeal

Christians are being asked to pray as the Employment Appeal Tribunal hears the case of sacked chaplain Rev Dr Bernard Randall.