Al-Wahadneh parish, located in northern Jordan, is part of a region with a deep religious and cultural heritage. It is one of seven Christian parishes in north Jordan, which include Irbid, Ajloun, Anjara, Mafraq, Husun, and Shatana. Establishing a parish in Al-Wahadneh proved to be a challenge due to the area's mountainous terrain, making access difficult. The first missionary visits were made through long, difficult journeys on foot or horseback. On the way to Al-Wahadneh one will pass by significant historical and religious sites: Mahanaim, where King David sought refuge during his son Absalom’s rebellion, (2 Samuel 17:24) the ruins of Tishbah (modern-day Listeb), where the prophet Elijah, the parish's patron saint, was born, as well as Wadi el-Yabas, where he hid during the three years of drought.

History and Demographics

Al-Wahadneh has historical roots that trace back to the Roman and Byzantine eras. Archaeological finds such as an ancient wine press and mosaics suggest the presence of a Byzantine church. Some stones marked with the cross symbol indicate an early Christian presence in the region.

The town’s population is a mix of Muslims and Christians, who belong to different communities. The Christian population is divided into two main clans: the Haddadin, who settled in the northern part of the town, and the Badour clan, who live in the central and southern areas. The total population of Al-Wahadneh is 7,500, with approximately 500 Christians.

Foundation of the Parish

The first Latin missionary arrived in Al-Wahadneh in 1889, but due to limited resources, he was unable to establish a permanent presence. From 1926 to 1945, Maronite priests served the parish until the first resident priest, Fr. Yacoub Saada, was appointed. The construction of a new church began in 1963, but progress was slow due to the rough roads and a shortage of workers. The project was completed with local help and was officially inaugurated by Patriarch Alberto Gori in 1964.

In 1961, three small classrooms were opened to teach children Faith foundations. This educational initiative was later expanded with the support of the Knights of the Holy Sepulcher from Germany, who contributed to building a kindergarten and other facilities. Today, the school consists of a kindergarten, a secondary school, and serves 160 students. In 1992, the Sisters of the Rosary arrived to assist with parish life, offering catechesis, spiritual counseling, and programs for youth and church fraternities. Al-Wahadneh has been a source of vocations, with nine priests and 11 religious sisters.

Pastoral Life

Fr. Salam Haddad, the current parish priest, has been caring for the parish for two years. The parish serves 94 families (approximately 320 people) by offering spiritual guidance and administering the sacraments. The parish has an advisory committee to help manage its affairs. The youth group, composed of about 60 young boys and girls, participates in joint activities with youth from nearby parishes. Additionally, the parish has a fraternity called Daughters of Mary with 20 members and an altar server group with 15 members.