Apostolic Nunciature marks fifth anniversary of Pope Francis' election

AMMAN — The Apostolic Nunciature in Jordan recently held a religious ceremony marking the fifth anniversary of the election of Pope Francis, which is regarded as a national holiday in the Holy See, a statement by said.

Apostolic Nuncio in Amman Archbishop Alberto Ortega Martín celebrated mass at St Mary of Nazareth Church in Amman, in the presence of senior Jordanian officials, ambassadors of foreign and Arab countries, directors of ecclesiastical institutions, and members of the public.

"You all know Pope Francis' love for Jordan, the entire Holy Land and the Middle East in general. You are also aware of his closeness and appreciation to the Christians in this blessed land since they have a very special mission, as they are invited to live and work alongside their Muslim brethren and peoples of different cultures and religions in order to promote peace and stability," Martin said in his address, calling for people to read Pope Francis' new Apostolic Exhortation in which he calls to holiness in today’s world.