The pilgrimage was initially scheduled to take place in April but was halted due to the increase in the value of the US dollar, which affected the ability of Nigerian pilgrims to afford the trip. However, with the stabilisation of the dollar, the pilgrimage was able to resume.
In a statement issued by Pam Ayuba, Special Assistant on Media to Executive Secretary, Nigeria Christian Pilgrimage in Amman, Jordan recently.
The pilgrims were warmly received by officials of Tabar Tours and Hajjat Tours and Travel upon their arrival at the Amman International Airport. Over 350 pilgrims from various states in Nigeria including the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, Lagos, Bayelsa, Imo, and Cross Rivers, make up this particular batch.
The Easter pilgrimage in Jordan holds significant religious importance for Christians, as it allows them to visit biblical sites and follow in the footsteps of Jesus Christ. It is a spiritual journey that deepens their faith and connection to their religious roots.
The resumption of the pilgrimage is a positive development for Nigerian Christians, as it provides them with the opportunity to fulfil their religious obligations and strengthen their bond with God. It also promotes cultural exchange and strengthens ties between Nigeria and Jordan.
The Nigerian government, in collaboration with tour agencies, has been working hard to ensure the smooth and successful completion of the pilgrimage. Strict health and safety protocols are in place to protect the pilgrims from the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
Overall, the resumption of the Easter pilgrimage in Jordan is a significant step forward for Nigerian pilgrims, as they are able to resume their religious journey and reconnect with their faith after experiencing a delay earlier in the year.
On the first day of the tour, pilgrims were taken to River Jabbok where Jacob wrestled with the Lord demanding to be blessed or he would not leave Him. God blessed Jacob and changed his name to Israel, marking the total transformation of the Israelites from there forward.
The next point of the visit was at Um Qais, Gedara, an ancient Greco-Roman city of Decapolis, a borderline between Jordan and Syria where Jesus Christ healed two young men who were possessed by demons.
According to the Bible account, as recorded in Mark 5:7, the demons were cast out into a swine of pigs and died thereafter at a river in the valley of Gedara.
Pilgrims were also taken to Tall Mar Elias, believed to be former Tishbi, close to the ruins of a village known as Listib said to be associated with the birthplace of the Prophet Elijah.
According to the biblical history of the people of the Ancient Near East, (ANE), Elijah was a native of Gilias in Transjordan as recorded in the book of 2 Kings 17:1. Recent archaeological discoveries were said to have substantiated this theory, following the two churches that were built on the Tall (Hilltop) at the end of the Byzantine era.
Jesus was said to have passed through this trade route with His disciples to Syria and adjoining villages to preach.
In all the sites visited, Nigerian Christians prayed for continued unity of the country, seeking the face of God for the new administration of President Bola Tinubu to succeed. They prayed for peace and development of the land and that governments at all levels should fear God and deliver dividends of democracy and reduce poverty. Prayers were also offered for the sick and the remaining electoral cases at the various election petition tribunals nationwide.
