Bethlehem’s Christmas Lights Illuminate Amid Palestinian Struggles
In Bethlehem, preparations for Christmas are underway amid ongoing struggles faced by the Palestinian people. This year marks a return to public celebrations following a two-year hiatus due to the violence in Gaza and the occupied West Bank.
Christmas Tree Lighting and Observances
The Christmas tree in Manger Square will be illuminated on December 6, while a midnight mass is planned for Christmas Eve. City officials emphasize that the celebrations will be subdued, focusing on religious significance rather than large festive gatherings.
Lucy Thaljiyeh, Bethlehem’s deputy mayor, stated, “We have decided to observe Christmas despite the hardships. The celebrations will have a different character, confined to rituals with no extravagant festivities.”
Impact of Conflict on Bethlehem
The past two years have been marked by immense suffering for Palestinians. The ongoing violence resulted in significant casualties: over 70,000 Palestinians have lost their lives, with approximately 170,000 wounded in Gaza alone since October 2023. In the West Bank, at least 1,082 Palestinians were killed, and around 11,000 injured.
- Casualties in Gaza: 70,000+ dead, 170,000+ injured
- West Bank: 1,082 Palestinians killed, 11,000 injured
- Destruction of nearly 49,000 trees, including 37,000 olive trees, a symbol of Palestinian identity
For Bethlehem, which relies heavily on tourism—accounting for approximately 80% of its economy—this violence has been devastating. Hotels saw a drastic decline in visitors, and many closed their doors, leading to widespread job losses.
Community Resilience and Hopes for Recovery
Despite the situation, a spirit of resilience is evident among residents. Peter Qanawati, a local Christian, expressed the difficulty of celebrating amidst ongoing suffering. “Christmas seems hard given what the people of Gaza are enduring,” he remarked, highlighting the city’s gradual erosion of its Christian population, which has plummeted from 90% in 1960 to about 20% today.
Meanwhile, Elias al-Arja, deputy head of the hotel owners’ union, indicated a cautious optimism regarding tourism. “We are starting to see inquiries about bookings,” he mentioned, signaling a potential uptick in pilgrim visits.
Message of Christmas
The upcoming festivities are seen more as an act of resilience than traditional celebration. “This year’s message is rise and shine, Bethlehem,” Thaljiyeh stated, emphasizing a commitment to maintaining cultural identity despite the hardships. The lighting of the Christmas tree will serve as a poignant symbol of hope for the people of Palestine.
As the holiday approaches, prayers for peace and healing resonate at the Church of the Nativity, reinforcing the community’s determination to persevere amid ongoing challenges. Bethlehem’s message this year is one of strength and faith, calling for justice and peace in a troubled land.
