Though it may not feel like it this year, Bethlehem, a small town in the occupied West Bank, has excellent cause to be known as the capital of Christmas.
Even though it is usually peak time, there are not many people there. The Nativity Church, which was constructed over the site of what is thought to have been the birthplace of Jesus, does not have the customary joyous street decorations or the enormous Christmas tree in front of it.
The war in Gaza has forced the cancellation of public Christmas celebrations for a second year. Palestinian Christians only go to family get-togethers and religious ceremonies.
“This should be a time of pleasure and celebration,” remarks local Lutheran priest Reverend Dr. Munther Isaac. “But in solidarity with our siblings in Gaza, Bethlehem is a depressing town.”
The Nativity tableau at his church depicts a newborn Jesus lying in a heap of debris. A prayer event in the lead-up to Christmas addressed the dire circumstances in Gaza.
In his vehement sermon, Isaac stated, “It is hard to comprehend that another Christmas has arrived upon us and the genocide has not ceased.” “Those in charge are happy to allow this to go on. Palestinians are disposable in their eyes.
Judges at the UN’s highest court have not yet rendered a decision on a case alleging genocide in Gaza, and Israel vehemently rejects any such claims.
I encounter a lot of dejected Bethlehemite Christians who wonder why other Christian communities throughout the world do not speak up.
Many residents have family and friends in Gaza because of the close relationships among the small Palestinian Christian population.
According to theologian Dr. Yousef Khouri, who was born in Gaza City, “My mother informed me that what we see on television does not convey one percent of what is happening.”
A few hundred Christians, including his parents and sister, have taken refuge in two Gazan churches for the majority of the last 14 months.
They suffer from famine, the same as the rest of the Gaza Strip. Naturally, they do not get much sleep due to the bombing, the numerous drones flying overhead, and the dearth of amenities and medical care,” he explains.
“Friends and family have passed away.”
The conflict that broke out in Gaza in reaction to Hamas attacks on southern Israel has claimed the lives of almost 45,000 people. Despite coming from the health ministry administered by Hamas, the UN and others believe the figures to be accurate. The attack on October 7, 2023, claimed the lives of over 1,200 persons, including some foreigners and Israelis, and resulted in the capture of roughly 250 more.
Alongside the war, tensions have increased in the West Bank. Israel has revoked tens of thousands of permits for laborers who used to enter Jerusalem or Jewish communities daily and placed additional limitations on Palestinians’ freedom of movement.
The economy is in terrible shape, particularly in Bethlehem, where tourism is a major driver and has all but halted. Guides feed the pigeons while standing lazily by the Nativity Church.
According to one guide, Abdullah, “If there [are] tourists, all the locals will work: hotels, transportation, accommodation, all of them.” “But there is no life in Bethlehem city if there are no tourists.”
“I have no money! No company! We stay at home for over a year,” says Adnan Subah, a Star Street souvenir vendor.
“All of my children stay at home while my son works as a tour guide at the church. No businesses, no jobs, and no tourists.
In the last year, a large number of local Muslim and Christian families have left the area. There is more anxiety and uncertainty about the future because of the ongoing threat of conflict and the growth of settlements in areas where Palestinians have long aspired to establish their independent state.
However, a Bethlehem neighborhood group is working to change things by preparing food packages for the less fortunate. Volunteers have been gathering money, even from members of the diaspora, as there is no government support available here.
“Christmas, as you are aware, is a time for joy, love, and giving. “With this package, we wish to bring some happiness and hope to the families in our community,” said Wael Shaer, the Palestine Lions Club president.
I watch as Wael delivers his first package to a woman in a nearby apartment. Her spouse is unwell and unemployed. With gratitude, she opens the supply box and removes an envelope containing cash.
She and Wael wish each other a peaceful new year in their traditional holiday greeting.
“Mission done!” As we go, Wael tells me.
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