Inscription in discovered cave: “70 beloved by God and the divine.”

by Michelle Buckalew, Best Friends Multifaith Outreach Program

(Jordan) Archaeologists in Rihab, Jordan, say they have discovered a cave that could be the world’s oldest Christian church. Dating to the period AD 33-70, the underground chapel would have served as both a place of worship and a home.

It is claimed that it was originally used by a group of 70 persecuted Christians who fled from Jerusalem. These early Christians lived and practiced their faith in secrecy until the Romans embraced Christianity several hundred years later.

Archimandrite Nektarious, Bishop Deputy of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese, described the discovery of the cave as an “important milestone for Christians all around the world.”

An inscription in the cave reads: “70 beloved by God and the divine.”

As we seek a better understanding of the evolving role/relationship between animals and religion, it is important to note that some of the early saints demonstrated that virtuous Christians treated animals respectfully and kindly:

-St Anthony of Padua preached to fishes
-St Francis of Assisi preached to the birds and became the most popular pro-animal Christian figure
-Cows, lambs are protected by St Brigit (pictured)
-St Columba told his monks to care for a crane


What You Can Do:

1. Read about how Christians have treated animals through the years and how it is changing. Click Here

2. Read more on this fascinating discovery of church from the BBC.Click here

3. See stunningly beautiful photos of the church from Rihab Center for Archaeological Studies and Research.Click Here

4. Read more on the church in Jordan from renowned Bible scholar Ferrell Jenkins.Click Here

5. Peruse The Top 10 Archaeological Discoveries of the 20th Century Relating to the Biblical World. Click Here

6. Sign the Religious Proclamation for Animal Compassion.
Click Here

Please note Rihab is located in the southern portion of Jordan between Israel and Saudi Arabia.