Andrea Bocelli prays at Jordan River site of Jesus’ baptism
AL-MAGHTAS, Jordan — Italian star tenor Andrea Bocelli made a pilgrimage to the traditional site of Jesus’ baptism Monday, praying for peace as he stood on the edge of the River Jordan.
Bocelli, 58, who is blind, was guided by a priest who scooped up river water and poured it over the singer’s hands. The artist, a Roman Catholic, made a sign of the cross and the priest recited the Ave Maria (Hail Mary) prayer.
The spot represents the “roots of my faith,” Bocelli told The Associated Press. “For this reason, it is a very special place. I am very happy to be here. I prayed for peace in the world.”
Bocelli performed later Monday at a Roman amphitheatre in Jordan’s northern city of Jerash. He sang popular arias as well as pop music standards.