Amman: The Orthodox Church on Friday marked the National Pilgrimage Day to the Mar Elias archaeological site in Ajloun Governorate with a Divine Liturgy led by Bishop Christophoros Atallah, Greek Orthodox Archbishop of Jordan, on the occasion of the Feast of the Prophet Elijah the Tishbite. The event was attended by a number of priests, as well as worshippers and visitors from various parts of the Kingdom.
According to Jordan News Agency, in his sermon, Bishop Atallah stressed the importance of following the example of the Prophet Elijah, particularly his steadfastness in faith, commitment to truth, and values of compassion and love. He called for embracing virtue and confronting the intellectual and spiritual challenges facing the contemporary world.
He highlighted the spiritual significance of Mar Elias as one of Jordan's religious and archaeological sites historically associated with monastic life and worship, stressing the need to preserve the country's religious and spiritual heritage and strengthen younger generations' connection to it.
The bishop also recounted the story of the Prophet Elijah and the widow of Zarephath, highlighting its lessons of obedience, trust in God and repentance, and stressing that faith is a source of peace and strength in people's lives. He urged worshippers to remain committed to faith and spiritual values and to make love, tolerance and service to others a reflection of their daily lives.
At the conclusion of the liturgy, Bishop Atallah prayed for the protection of Jordan under the leadership of His Majesty King Abdullah II, and for the Kingdom's continued security and stability. He also prayed for the Jordan Armed Forces-Arab Army and security agencies.
The bishop praised the cooperation of the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, the Jordan Tourism Board and the Embassy of Greece in carrying out restoration works at the Mar Elias archaeological site. He said a specialized team from Greece would resume restoration work in coordination with the ministry. He also expressed appreciation to the Consul of the Republic of Cyprus and all parties supporting efforts to care for and preserve the site.