Israel Removes Land Mines From Site Of Jesus’ Baptism
Pilgrims are flowing back to the traditional site of Jesus’ baptism on the Jordan River as Israel removes 40-year-old land mines and makes improvements to the area.
“It is a very sensitive place politically and religiously and is of importance to both Christians and Jews,” said Lt. Col. Ofer Mey-tal, of the department of Civil Administration, who oversees the project.
Located in a closed military area on the West Bank near Jericho, the site — has been revered since the fourth or fifth century as the place where John the Baptist recognized Jesus as the Messiah. Jewish tradition holds this also is where the ancient Israelites crossed into the Promised Land following their flight from Egypt.