Christmas in Bethlehem
The small town of Bethlehem, believed to be the birthplace of Jesus, is often a manifestation of hope and joy on Christmas. But this year, Bethlehem is anything but the cheerful, festive place it is known to be.
Inside occupied West Bank, Bethlehem wears a veneer of sadness and in complete solidarity with whatever has been happening in Gaza amidst the war. For a second year in a row, there will be no public celebration-none of the traditional holiday street decorations, and a gigantic Christmas tree outside the famous Nativity Church is noticeably absent. For Palestinian Christians, the Christian holy day will be restricted to subdued religious services and in-house family celebrations. Over everything, there is despair.
A Somber Spirit in Bethlehem
The Reverend Dr. Munther Isaac, a Lutheran pastor, describes the solemnity in Bethlehem: "This should be a time of joy and celebration. But Bethlehem is a sad town in solidarity with our siblings in Gaza." His church's Nativity scene reflects this sentiment, depicting baby Jesus lying amidst rubble instead of a manger.
Prayer services in the pre-Christmas period have focused on the disastrous situation in Gaza. In a recent sermon, Reverend Isaac condemned the nonstop violence: "It's hard to believe that another Christmas has come upon us and the genocide has not stopped." Allegations of genocide, strongly denied by Israel, lie at the heart of many Palestinians' grievances.
The Toll on Families and Communities
The suffering extends beyond Bethlehem, as close ties within the Palestinian Christian community connect many to Gaza. Dr. Yousef Khouri, a theologian originally from Gaza City, shared the harrowing experiences of his family sheltering in churches amidst bombardments and a lack of basic necessities. “We’ve lost friends and relatives,” he laments, capturing the anguish felt by many.
In Gaza, more than 45,000 have been killed, according to the health ministry run by Hamas-the figures are believed to be reliable by international bodies, including the UN. The impact of that devastation has rippled to the West Bank, where increased restrictions on movement and economic pressures have deepened desperation. Tourist-dependent Bethlehem finds tour guides, souvenir sellers, and businessmen struggling to survive.
A Ray of Hope
In this bleakness, the struggle to instill hope has not ended. Local community groups, such as the Palestine Lions Club, do what they can to help needy families. Volunteers package food parcels and distribute donations, spreading some cheer and a sense of love in this season.
As you know, Christmas is the spirit of giving and love and joy. We hope with this parcel we can give some hope and joy to the families in our area," said Wael Shaer, head of the Palestine Lions Club.
These gestures are indicative of the resilience and strength of Palestinian Christians in sustaining their faith and communal sense amidst overwhelming obstacles.
Conclusion
This Christmas, Bethlehem has in store a harsh reality for Palestinian Christians of bereavement, solidarity, and survival. While festivities might be at low key, resilience and goodness against all atrocities constantly remind one of the hope that still abides within.
As the whole world is celebrating this season, remember the people of Bethlehem and Gaza, praying that peace and justice may prevail.