In a region often defined by division and conflict, the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan has once again demonstrated its status as a haven of refuge, peace, and coexistence. Within a single week, two historic milestones for the global Baptist family and the wider evangelical community took place in Amman, Jordan — a majority Muslim country where Christians not only live in peace, but thrive with dignity under the wise leadership of His Majesty King Abdullah II.
Daoud Kuttab
On Sept. 25, the capital city of Amman welcomed leaders from 45 nations to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the European Baptist Federation (EBF). This was more than a milestone anniversary; it was the first time the federation gathered in an Arab country. The presence of over 200 Baptist leaders from around the world was itself a testimony: Jordan is not only safe but is a true bridge between East and West, Muslims and Christians, nations and peoples.
In this historic setting, Reverend Charlie Costa of Lebanon was installed as the new president of the EBF, becoming the first Arab to hold this office since the federation’s founding. Standing on Jordanian soil, Rev. Costa pointed to the deeper meaning of the moment: “This evening we celebrate the place: the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan. Under the wise leadership of His Majesty King Abdullah II ibn Al Hussein, Jordan is an oasis of security and freedoms guaranteed to all its citizens and residents.”
Rev. Costa reminded us that Jordan is not only a meeting ground for Baptists but a nation that models Christian values of compassion, justice, and peace. He noted how the King’s consistent efforts — from his speeches at the United Nations to his tireless advocacy for peace in Gaza — demonstrate a vision of a world where all are free to worship, to live with dignity, and to prosper side by side.
The celebration of Baptist life in Jordan did not end there. In another groundbreaking announcement, the Baptist World Alliance appointed Rev. Dr. Nabeeh Abbasi, president of the Jordanian Baptist Convention, as its very first Ambassador to the Middle East. His appointment — unanimously affirmed — was more than an honor for one man; it was a recognition of Jordan’s witness to the global church. Dr. Abbasi pledged to use this role to strengthen the image of Jordan as a land of coexistence and to advance the values of peace and justice, which are deeply shared between the Christian faith and the Kingdom’s leadership.
In his own words, Dr. Abbasi reflected: “This position represents a great opportunity to serve our region in line with the humanitarian message of the Christian faith, which is fully aligned with the values of the Kingdom, championed by His Majesty the King — peace, dignity, and justice for all.”
Top governmental leaders, including the elected Speaker of Jordan’s parliament, Ahmad Safadi, were on hand to celebrate these momentous milestones.
Rev. Charlie Costa, the New President of the European Baptist Federation. (Daoud Kuttab)
Adding spiritual depth to this historic week, Palestinian theologian Hanna Katanacho offered a series of lectures on the Old Testament through a Christ-centered, justice-oriented lens. His message was clear: the God revealed in Scripture is a God of mercy and grace, who calls His followers to reject hatred and embody love and justice for all people. His Palestinian Christian perspective reminded Baptists that God’s Word continues to speak hope, reconciliation, and healing into our divided world.
For Baptists, the events in Jordan this week were not merely organizational milestones. They were a living testimony of what it means to be the body of Christ across cultures and continents, and of how God can use even a small nation to shine a light of tolerance and freedom. In Amman, Baptists saw firsthand that the Kingdom of Jordan — under the leadership of King Abdullah II — has become a modern-day example of coexistence, where Christians and Muslims live together in mutual respect and peace.
In a world that longs for models of reconciliation, Jordan’s witness should inspire us all. As Baptists, we left Amman reminded of our calling: to be peacemakers, to uphold human dignity, and to proclaim Christ’s love with courage. Jordan has given us a powerful example of what that looks like in action.
Daoud Kuttab is an award-winning Palestinian Christian journalist and publisher of Milhilard.org. His most recent book, State of Palestine NOW, is now available in multiple languages and audiobook formats.
