Christmas Cheer Returns to Bethlehem Amid Hardship
BETHLEHEM, West Bank (AP) — Christmas Eve drew thousands to Manger Square in Bethlehem. Families welcomed a sprinkle of holiday spirit, especially with the giant Christmas tree back in full view after being absent during the recent Israel-Hamas war.
This year marked a shift for a town that canceled Christmas celebrations for two years. In its place, Manger Square showcased a nativity scene surrounded by rubble, a stark reminder of the ongoing conflict.
Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, the leading Catholic figure in the Holy Land, launched the festivities in a traditional procession from Jerusalem to Bethlehem. He emphasized the need for “a Christmas full of light,” bringing greetings from the small Christian community in Gaza, where hope remains despite widespread destruction.
He urged everyone to be a beacon of light, saying, “The light of Bethlehem is the light of the world.”
Despite the festive atmosphere, the scars of war are evident in Bethlehem. About 80% of the city’s residents rely on tourism, which has been severely impacted. Local guides, Georgette and Michael Jackaman, shared that their children’s first real Christmas celebration is a symbol of hope. They created a website to sell Palestinian crafts during tough times when unemployment skyrocketed from 14% to 65%.
Visitors, like French tourist Mona Riewer, felt drawn to Bethlehem to understand the hardships faced by its people. “Christmas is hope in very dark situations,” she shared.
Even with a ceasefire in Gaza since October, tensions linger in the West Bank. Israeli military operations continue, and violence from settlers against Palestinians has risen sharply. Bethlehemites are grappling with ongoing challenges, as the mayor revealed that around 4,000 residents have moved away seeking work, a trend concerning for the dwindling Christian population.
Signs of Recovery
Fadi Zoughbi, a local, observed the joy of children witnessing festive parades, which had been silent protests for two years. Irene Kirmiz, a Ramallah resident, cherished the parade tradition but noted the difficulties of traveling through Israeli checkpoints, a reminder of the challenges Palestinians face daily.
“It’s emotional to see people strive for happiness amid struggles,” Irene reflected.
In prior years, church leaders advised celebrating Christmas quietly, focusing on its spiritual meaning and praying for peace. This year felt different—a beacon of resilience.
Christmas Celebrations Elsewhere
In Nazareth, where Christians remember the angel’s announcement to Mary, a vibrant parade brought joy, filling the streets with laughter and children participating in live Nativity scenes.
In Syria, a Greek Orthodox church recovery marked a poignant return for many, lighting up the courtyard after a past tragedy.
Christmas manifests joy in various forms around the globe, from Florida’s surfboard Santas to localized traditions that raise funds and community spirits.
This Christmas in Bethlehem symbolizes hope amidst struggle, reflecting a community’s spirit to rise again, illuminating hearts with resilience and love.
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Christmas, General news, Gaza Strip, Israel, West Bank, Christianity, Israel-Hamas war, Holidays, Religion, Mona Riewer, Christian Bethlehem, Fadi Zoughbi, Hamas, Israel government, 2024-2025 Mideast Wars, Georgette Jackaman, Irene Kirmiz, Michael Jackaman, World news
