Syrian Christians have marked their first Christmas celebrations since the downfall of President Bashar al-Assad, taking place amid the echoes of conflict and strife. On Christmas Eve, large crowds gathered at Sednaya, where the glow of festive lights from a towering tree illuminated the historic monastery. Families, adorned with Santa hats, celebrated under the fireworks lighting up the war-torn skies—a momentary escape from the harsh realities of life marred by over a decade of conflict.
“This year is different, there’s happiness, victory and a new birth for Syria and a new birth for Christ,” expressed attendee Houssam Saadeh. His optimism was mirrored by Joseph Khabbaz, who voiced hopes for unity across the various religious sects and communities within Syria. The pews were filled at the Lady of Damascus Church, where young and old congregated, flickering candles dancing to hymns echoing through the sacred halls. This newfound sense of joy stood stark against the backdrop of fear and uncertainty following Assad's regime’s collapse.
On the eve of this significant celebration, protests occurred within Damascus, demonstrating against the heinous act of arson against a Christmas tree burned by unknown assailants in the Hama governorate. Hundreds took to the streets to denounce this act, chanting slogans such as, “We are your soldiers, Jesus,” along with affirmations of their commitment to the faith transcending personal and communal sacrifices.
Security measures were intensified during celebrations, with troops dispatched to churches and surrounding areas to prevent potential sabotage, as reported by the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. “Today, many security forces are deployed to protect churches because sabotage is feared, but things are normal,” Nicola Jazgi, attending mass in eastern Damascus, remarked about the festive atmosphere. His comments reflected the palpable sense of relief, and he added, “This year is not only Christmas; it signifies the victory of the revolution and the fall of the tyrant. We hope this day symbolizes redemption from the Assad family’s era of injustice.”
Despite uncertainties, this Christmas embodies resilience—a celebration layered with collective hope and remembrance of those lost during the brutal civil war. Church leaders and attendees alike, emboldened by the political shift, found comfort and strength within their faith, seeking unity to build bridges among the various sects of Syria, regardless of their differing beliefs.
While the memories of conflict linger, the return of Christmas joy implies more than just holiday cheer. It's seen as evidence of healing and the possibility of reuniting shattered lives. The efforts to rekindle communal relationships have become more pronounced amid the backdrop of political change. Christmas, once again, stands as both celebration and symbol for many Syrians hoping for peace and recovery.
On the streets of Damascus, followers of varying religions—both Christians and Muslims—stood united against the acts of vandalism aimed at their shared values, reflecting the deep-rooted spirit of solidarity against divisive narratives. The fervent demonstrations highlighted the desire for community resilience, no matter the creed.
With Christmas lights flickering and songs reverberations through the air, Syrian Christians have reclaimed the holiday from the shadows of despair, fostering new hope for the future. Their celebrations are just as much about the birth of Christ as they are about the birth of renewed convictions within the nation.
This pivotal moment for the Syrian Christian community stands as testimony to the enduring power of faith amid the chaos, joined not merely to the years of suffering but to their aspirations for peace, unity, and justice. This Christmas, they extend their wishes beyond their community, longing for reconciliation across all Syrian lives, embodying the true essence of the season.
