Return of Christmas celebrations in Bethlehem spreads message of “coexistence, dignity, an
Source: NEOS KOSMOS
After two years of cancelled public Christmas celebrations in Jesus’s birthplace, the return of carols and prayers in Bethlehem, brought a – literal – glimmer of light.
On the evening of 6 December, Manger Square’s 20-metre-tall Christmas tree was lit up for the first time since 2022.
Thousands of parishioners and locals gathered to witness the ceremony outside the Church of the Nativity.
“We were also joined by Christians from across the West Bank who made the effort to come despite restrictions and hardships, simply to be present and to pray in Bethlehem,” Greek Orthodox parish priest Fr. Issa Thaljieh told Neos Kosmos.
Many in the crowd, he said, stood in silence, some with tears in their eyes.
“I heard people say, ‘This light gives us strength to continue.’
“After two years marked by silence, pain, and uncertainty, that light felt like a gentle whisper from God reminding us that He has not abandoned Bethlehem.”
‘True message of Bethlehem’
Christians account for less than 2% of West Bank’s three million residents.
But the return of Christmas festivities was meaningful for the entire Muslim-majority community.
“Muslims joined respectfully, reminding us that Manger Square has always been a place where faith, humanity, and shared values meet.
“In that moment, the square reflected the true message of Bethlehem: coexistence, dignity, and peace,” Fr. Issa said.
Modest celebrations
Located 10 kms south of Jerusalem, the Church of Nativity site has been identified by Christian tradition since the 2nd century AD as the birthplace of Jesus.
It is the world’s oldest Christian church in daily use.
Managed under the ‘Status Quo of the Holy Places’, it is overseen by members of the Greek Orthodox Church, the Custody of the Holy Land, and the Armenian Church, who maintain convents on the site.
As a major pilgrimage destination, Bethlehem attracts religious visitors from all over the world throughout the year, with numbers peaking in December.
During Christmas week alone in 2022, it received approximately 120,000 visitors.
They included 600 Palestinian Christians from Gaza, most of whom are Greek Orthodox, who were granted a travel permit by Israeli authorities.
While the war in Gaza lasted, Christian leaders and local authorities had unanimously decided to put Christmas festivities on hold.
But this year’s Israel – Hamas ceasefire signaled the return of international visitors to Bethlehem, albeit in small numbers.
Celebrations in Manger Square have also been modest in form.
“They were centered on prayer, quiet joy, Christmas carols by local singers and choirs, and the presence of the people rather than large festivities,” Fr Issa said.
For ‘Christians and non-Christians alike’
Located inside the Church of Nativity is the Nativity Grotto, a small cave over which the first church edifice was built, traditionally believed to be the very place where Jesus was born.
The site where Christmas began is central to its meaning, Fr. Issa explains.
“Christ was born in a manger, among the poor and the forgotten, to remind humanity that dignity is found in compassion.
“The message of Christmas is universal. It speaks to Christians and non-Christians alike. Christmas calls us to reject violence, hatred, and indifference. It invites us to choose mercy, reconciliation, and peace.”
It’s a callout resonating with Bethlehem locals, many of whom have family and friends in Gaza.
“From Bethlehem, the birthplace of the Prince of Peace, my heart goes out to all who are suffering especially the people of Gaza, who endure unimaginable pain, loss, and fear. To every mother, father, and child living under the shadow of violence, I say: you are not forgotten.”
It’s also a callout transcending borders, Fr. Issa added, addressing Australians reeling from a week of grief.
“I extend our prayers and solidarity to the people of Australia, particularly those affected by the tragic attack at Bondi Beach. To the families who lost loved ones and to a nation shaken by sorrow, we share your grief. Violence anywhere wounds humanity everywhere.”
“May the Christ born in Bethlehem comfort every broken heart, heal every wounded soul, and inspire all people to choose life, peace, and love.”
The original article: belongs to NEOS KOSMOS .
