Supposed Site of Moses’ Death Reopens to the Public

Veronica Neffinger | iBelieve Contributor | Updated: Oct 19, 2016

Supposed Site of Moses’ Death Reopens to the Public

The site of the supposed death of Moses in the Holy Land has been reopened after being closed for nearly ten years.

According to ChristianToday.com, the site is located on Mount Nebo in Jordan, 20 miles southwest of Amman. It offers a sprawling view of the West Bank, Jericho, and Jerusalem from atop the 3,300-foot mountain.

Monks took over the ruins left by archaeologists at the site in the 1930’s, and it has since been a popular pilgrimage site for Jews, Christians, and Muslims. Popes John Paul II and Benedict XVI have visited the site.

The current restoration began in 2007 after remains of an ancient church basilica were found, but were deemed unfit to house the Moses memorial.

Cardinal Leonardo Sandri, special envoy for Pope Francis and prefect of the Congregation for Eastern Churches, presided over the opening of the newly-renovated church and monastery.

"The spiritual treasures that this place holds today are returned to Jordan and to humanity," he told the crowd of about 500 gathered for the event.

"The figure of Moses, as a prophet, friend of God and giver of the law, is indeed held in high esteem by our Jewish, Christian and Muslim brothers,” he continued.

Sandri also used the opportunity to encourage those gathered to work toward peace and healing:

"We must set out toward a newfound freedom, in a concrete and fraternal solidarity with our neighbours, whoever they may be, especially the poor and suffering. This process demands a profound faith in God, who can never be invoked to cause terror and violence,” he said.

 

Photo courtesy: Thinkstockphotos.com

Publication date: October 19, 2016



Supposed Site of Moses’ Death Reopens to the Public