Christmas celebrations are tinged with sorrow as Bethlehem observes its second consecutive subdued holiday season amid the aftermath of the conflict between Israel and Hamas. Located at the heart of the West Bank, the city, known as the birthplace of Jesus Christ, finds its once-bustling streets quiet, with Manger Square largely devoid of visitors and the festive decorations conspicuously absent this year. The situation has left many residents reflecting on the diminished spirit of what is traditionally one of their most joyous times of year.
Under the shadow of war and suffering, local authorities made the conscious decision to forgo extravagant decorations this year, with the iconic Christmas tree and lights missing from the usual gathering spots. Palestinian security forces helped maintain barriers near the Church of the Nativity, which stands over the site believed to be the birthplace of Jesus, as the community grapples with the deep pain caused by the prolonged conflict. Mayor Anton Salman expressed the duality of their message, stating, 'Always the message of Bethlehem is a message of peace and hope. And these days, we are also sending our message to the world: peace and hope, but insisting the world must work to end our suffering as Palestinian people.'
According to tourism officials, the number of visitors plummeted drastically, with attendance figures dropping from two million visitors during the holiday season just four years ago to a mere 100,000 this year. This dramatic downturn has been devastating for Bethlehem, where tourism is estimated to account for about 70% of the economy, particularly around Christmas time. Mayor Salman noted this economic despair, with unemployment soaring to around 50% among the workforce.
The situation is exacerbated by the violence and tragic outcomes of the current war, which erupted on October 7, 2023. Continuous conflict has resulted in the deaths of over 45,000 Palestinians, according to health officials, and nearly 90% of Gaza's residents have been displaced. Amid this turmoil, Christians, who represent about 2% of the region’s population, found solace in prayer. At Holy Family Church, where Christmas masses have been held, Archbishop Pierbattista Pizzaballa conveyed hope through his messages during the solemn celebrations. He encapsulated the sentiments echoed by many, proclaiming, 'This has to be the last Christmas be so sad. I bring you the greetings, the prayers, of our brothers and sisters in Gaza.
Despite the gloomy atmosphere, there were moments of light. Children participating with the Terra Sancta Scout Troop paraded through the main shopping street, dressed up and singing Christmas carols. Yet, their playful demeanor was accompanied by serious banners reading, 'We want life, not death' and 'Stop the Gaza genocide now!' They poignantly captured the essence of the season: joy laced with perseverance, hope for future peace, and reminders of the suffering experienced by many.
The sentiments shared by residents reflect both sorrow and resilience. Mayor Anton Salman emphasized the importance of prayer as he expressed hopes for peace, stating, 'We’re going to pray and ask God to end our suffering, to give this part of the world the peace.' This yearning for tranquility and normalcy pulls at the heartstrings of many who long to see their city bloom once more.
Pizzaballa, who returned shortly after visiting Gaza, shared harrowing accounts of destruction as he reflected on the state of the communities affected by the war. He urged those around him to remain steadfast, reminding them, 'I saw everything destroyed, poverty, disaster... But I also saw life – they don’t give up. So you should not give up either. Never.' His advocacy for hope was not unrecognized; it seemed to resonate with those gathered across Bethlehem.
The Latin Patriarch concluded his address with aspirations for the future, proclaiming, 'Next year, we want to see the biggest Christmas tree ever.' This statement serves not merely as desire but as collective hope shared among the residents and global observers longing for reconciliation and healing.
Even as the holiday season remains overshadowed by the bitter realities of conflict, the spirit of Bethlehem pushes forward, calling for peace and urging the world to share their plight and their resilience as they continue to pray for brighter days.
