Israel is looking ahead to 2030 as a landmark year for Christianity, with the country’s Foreign Ministry already taking steps to prepare for what could be an enormous wave of religious pilgrims.
The year 2030 is widely regarded as the 2,000th anniversary of the baptism of Jesus Christ in the Jordan River — a site that already draws thousands of Christian visitors each year. Israeli officials expect that number to grow dramatically as the milestone approaches.
Foreign Minister Gideon Saar has outlined his intentions for the occasion, saying he will work to “deepen dialogue with churches and Christian leaders worldwide and prepare for the arrival of the pilgrims.”
The Foreign Ministry says preparations are being made now to ensure the country is ready to welcome the expected surge in faith-based tourism surrounding this once-in-a-millennium anniversary.
