More than 20,000 Orthodox Christians Flock to Jordan River to Be Baptized

Over the weekend, over 20,000 Christians from around the world gathered at the Jordan River to be baptized. 

According to CBN, the pilgrims commemorated the Feast of the Epiphany, which is a day that Orthodox Christians and Catholics remember when the three Magi visited baby Jesus.

The Jordan River is believed to be the site where John the Baptist baptized Jesus, as well as where the Israelites crossed over into the Promised Land and where Elijah ascended to heaven.

The annual pilgrimage started in January when five Christian denominations held baptismal ceremonies at the River. Coptic and Armenian Christians will continue with other events later this month.

Israel has embraced the Christian community trekking through their country to honor their faith.

“The Civil Administration put much effort in order to prepare for these important ceremonies as part of its program to preserve freedom of religion and worship for all Christian denominations,” said Jericho District Coordination and Liaison Administration head Lieutenant Colonel Eran Gross. “Thanks to the ceremonies, we see a marked rise in tourism alongside a boost to the economy, for which I am thankful. On this occasion, I would like to wish all members of the Christian community happy holidays.”

For those who cannot travel to the Jordan, Christians dunk themselves into freezing rivers all over the country, including in…