Middle East Travel Seminar: A great day in Amman
BY AL ADAMS
Jordan is usually a land of hot and dry temperatures, especially this time of year. Yet our group’s first full day here was cool and rainy. Who knew? Weather notwithstanding, with our fine guide, Naim, and Professors Carson Brisson and Samuel Adams, we had a great day in Amman (pronounced “A-Man”). We saw this city of three million with its hills like Rome and its many limestone buildings. We saw the Citadel and then on to Jerash, north of Amman, including Hadrian’s Gate, the Temple of Zeus, the Agora, and the Temple of Artemis.
We also braved a phalanx of merchants in Jerash, hawking their many wares. Many Jordanians were out, including dozens of schoolgirls smiling and greeting us with “Hi” or “Hello” and wanting selfies. Also, blessedly, there were sellers of umbrellas and pretty pink raincoats, one of which I happily donned.
The evening was a true climax, where we hosted Pastor Shadi Bqain of the Church of the Nazarene and members of his congregation. Pastor Bqain is a Jordanian Christian, 16 years a minister with a church, who also works with prison ministries. Pastor Bqain pointed out sites near Amman in the Bible (e.g., site of Jesus’ baptism on the east bank of the Jordan River). He said that between two and perhaps five percent of Jordanians are Christian. They are free to worship and are active in their communities, including serving in the Jordanian Parliament. It is illegal for Muslims to enter Christian churches, but evangelism is conducted informally. He dialogues with Muslims.
Pastor Bqain discussed the Syrian refugee situation in Jordan and pointed out that the Jordanian population has more than doubled since the Syrian crisis began. He stated that Jordanians are welcoming but the sheer numbers of refugees have strained the country. Sixty-percent of Jordanians are Palestinians. Pastor Bqain led a closing prayer in Arabic and was warmly greeted by our group afterward. His presentation was very meaningful.
This day revealed some of Jordan’s treasures but, as importantly, the pleasant, courteous and upbeat spirit of our group.
Top photo: The 2018 Middle East Travel Seminary with Pastor Shadi Bqain (seated second from left).
Al Adams is the father of Professor Samuel Adams.
