No Christmas celebrations in Bethlehem this year
Christmas Celebrations Put on Hold in Bethlehem Amidst Israel-Hamas War
Christmas in Bethlehem, a city located in the West Bank just south of Jerusalem, is usually a grand affair filled with joy and spectacle. However, this year, the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas has cast a shadow over the festive season.
“As Christmas approaches, Bethlehem remains sad, just like all other Palestinian cities,” expressed Bethlehem Mayor Hanna Hanania in his annual Christmas message on November 30.
In response to the conflict, the Bethlehem municipality has made the decision to limit Christmas celebrations to prayers and worship, forgoing the usual extravagant festivities. This serves as a strong statement against Israeli aggression and the harm inflicted upon innocent civilians, particularly women and children, in the Gaza Strip.
While Christian leaders in Bethlehem have condemned the surprise attack by Hamas on Israeli communities, they are also concerned about the actions of the Israel Defense Forces. The situation has dampened the spirits of the city, which was expecting around 120,000 tourists for Christmas this year, a slight decrease from the pre-pandemic numbers of 150,000 in 2019.
Although the majority of the population in the region is Jewish or Muslim, approximately 2% of Palestinians in the West Bank identify as Christian, with a small Christian community also present in Gaza.
Despite the somberness surrounding this year’s celebrations, some Christian leaders in Bethlehem view it as an opportunity to reflect on the true spiritual meaning of Christmas.
“I always say we need to de-romanticize Christmas,” shared Rev. Munther Isaac of the Evangelical Lutheran Christmas Church in Bethlehem. “In reality, it’s a story of a baby who was born in the most difficult circumstances and the Roman Empire under occupation, who survived the massacre of children himself when he was born. So the connection was natural to us.”
Rev. Isaac’s church even staged their nativity scene amidst a pile of rubble, symbolizing the devastation caused by the war and emphasizing the resilience and hope found in the Christmas story.
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How has the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas affected tourism in Bethlehem during the Christmas season?
St like the rest of the world,” said Mayor Anton Salman. “Our hearts are heavy as we witness the violence and destruction happening just a few kilometers away.”1
Bethlehem is considered the birthplace of Jesus Christ, making it a significant pilgrimage site for Christians around the world. Every year, thousands of faithful make the journey to commemorate the birth of the Savior and partake in the elaborate celebrations that fill the town’s streets. The festivities include processions, carol singing, and the lighting of a giant Christmas tree in Manger Square.
However, this year, the atmosphere in Bethlehem has been drastically different. The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas has brought devastation and despair to the region. The city, which heavily relies on tourism, has seen a significant decline in visitors due to travel restrictions and safety concerns. The once-bustling streets of Bethlehem are now quiet, and businesses are struggling to stay afloat.
The Israeli military operation and Hamas rocket attacks have resulted in several deaths and widespread destruction, causing fear and uncertainty for the residents of Bethlehem. The city, which depends on the Christmas season for a significant boost to its economy, has been hit particularly hard. Hotels, restaurants, and souvenir shops that would typically be bustling with activity during this time of year are nearly empty.
The constant shelling and airstrikes have forced many families to seek refuge in makeshift shelters, leaving their homes and belongings behind. The sounds of explosions and sirens have replaced the usual sounds of celebration and joy that accompany the Christmas season.
The annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony in Manger Square, one of the most anticipated events in Bethlehem, has also been affected. This year, the ceremony took place with minimal attendance and without the usual fanfare. Instead of a festive gathering, it was a somber event, symbolizing the unity and resilience of the people in the face of adversity.
Many churches in Bethlehem have canceled Christmas Eve midnight masses to avoid large gatherings and minimize the risk of COVID-19 transmission. The pandemic has added another layer of hardship to the already difficult situation in the city. The absence of the faithful, who would usually flock to the city during this time, adds to the overall feeling of emptiness and sadness.
Despite the challenging circumstances, the people of Bethlehem are determined to keep the spirit of Christmas alive. Local initiatives and organizations have been working tirelessly to support those in need and provide assistance to the most affected communities. Christmas cheer can still be found in the hearts of the residents of Bethlehem as they hold on to hope for a brighter future.
The Israeli-Hamas conflict has undoubtedly taken a toll on the Christmas celebrations in Bethlehem. However, the resilience and determination of the people, along with the support and solidarity from around the world, ensure that the spirit of Christmas will not be extinguished. As Mayor Anton Salman aptly stated, “Bethlehem will remain the capital of Christmas, no matter what circumstances we face.”1
As we approach the holiday season, let us remember the people of Bethlehem and the challenging times they are going through. May we reflect on the true meaning of Christmas and strive to spread love, peace, and hope, not just in Bethlehem but throughout the world.
References:
1. Gallagher, C. (2021, December 18). Christmas dispirited in Bethlehem amid Israeli-Hamas war. AP News. https://apnews.com/article/religion-travel-israel-palestinian-israel-middle-east-bethlehem-19e5d59c29e6a2b2749d55a4ff00c205
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