On Thursday, April 23, 2026, Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem His Beatitude Cardinal Pierbattista Pizaaballa began a three-day pastoral visit to Al-Hususn in Irbid Governorate.

Throughout the visit, Cardinal Pizzaballa will meet with parish members and its various groups, clergy from other churches, local authorities, and representatives of educational institutions, including schools and universities. He will also preside over the sacraments of First Communion and Confirmation for a number of parish members.

During a reception ceremony held in the church square, Cardinal Pizzaballa affirmed that Jerusalem will remain a symbol of noble values despite the current circumstances. He also referred to His Majesty King Abdullah II as the “light of the region,” whose wisdom illuminates the paths of harmony and common living, noting that Jordan represents a “safe haven” and a unique model of fraternity, that is clearly manifested in Al-Husun.

For his part, Commissioner of Bani Obeid District,Dr. Ali Al-Hawamdeh, reviewed the role of the Hashemite leadership in entrenching moderation through the “Amman Message,” which rejects extremism and upholds respect for humanity. He stressed that the Hashemite custodianship is a firm historical foundation that serves in protecting holy sites, and that Jordan would remain a stronghold of Arab identity and a voice for justice.

For his part, parish priest Father Wajdi Sahaweh welcomed Cardinal Pizzaballa who was accompanied by Latin Patriarchal Vicar for Jordan  Bishop Iyad Twal. He

said that Al-Husun presents a model of “deep-rooted brotherhood,” rather than common living, noting that Al-Husun is considered one of the cities of the Decapolis visited by Lord Jesus Christ, which reflects its profound historical roots and strong ties to Jerusalem.

It is worthy to note that Al-Husun is located about eight kilometers south of Irbid, in northern Jordan. It is considered one of the Jordanian towns with a long-standing Christian presence, which has, over the decades, formed a living model of diversity and rooted ecclesial life.