Yardenit

More than half a million tourists and pilgrims annually come to experience the spirituality and pastoral beauty of the waters of the River Jordan, in which Jesus was baptised by John the Baptist at the baptismal site of Yardenit situated on the banks of the Jordan River, flowing forth from the Sea of Galilee.

“In those days Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee and was baptised by John in the Jordan. And when he came up out of water, immediately he saw the heavens opened and the Spirit descending upon him like a dove, and a voice came from heaven; ‘Thou art my beloved Son, with thee I am well pleased.” Mark 1:9-11.

Entire communities come from as far as Indonesia to celebrate a mass-baptism in the waters of the Jordan River.

Their baptism ceremonies are accompanied by beautiful religious hymns.

Visitors can’t help but notice the multitude of stone slabs on which the verse from Mark describing the baptism of Jesus is inscribed in many different languages.

3D Virtual Tour of Yardenit Baptism Site

See how the pilgrims sing in unison dressed in their  baptismal robes, led by their choir master and pastor.

Bottles on sale for Holy Jordan Water

Many pilgrims want to take home water from the Jordan River. Yardenit provides glass and plastic containers in all sizes.

 

Especially popular are souvenirs with Jewish symbols.

Artistic baptism robes are available.

Entry to the site is free and there is no charge for conducting baptismal ceremonies. All visitors wear special white baptismal robes during their baptism. These can be rented or purchased on site. There is a charge for the use of a few of Yardenit’s facilities. Swim suits must be worn under the robe.

• Baptism ceremonies may not be conducted in swim suits or in the nude.
• No swimming, fishing, picnicking or boating is allowed. The costs and fees are:

• Baptismal kit – rental: $10
includes: a baptismal / re-dedication certificate, white baptismal robes (on loan), a towel (on loan), and entrance to the hot showers & change facility.
• Baptismal kit – purchase: $25
includes: a baptismal / re-dedication certificate, white baptismal robes, a towel (on loan), and entrance to the hot showers & change facility.
• Baptismal / re-dedication certificate only: $2
• Entrance to the hot showers & change facility only: $2

A DVD of your baptism ceremony will be available for purchase on site as well.

Yardenit is open seven days a week all year round, except for the Jewish Holiday of Yom Kippur (The Day of Atonement).