Bethlehem Cancels Christmas Celebrations in Solidarity with Gaza Amidst Conflict
Bethlehem, known for its festive Christmas celebrations, faces a sombre holiday season this year as tourism dwindles and conflicts in the region take centre stage. Traditionally bustling streets and the lively Manger Square in the town center now stand silent.
According to a report by Religion Media Centre, Pilgrims and tourists from around the world are avoiding the journey to Bethlehem due to heightened tensions and increased checkpoints, a consequence of the conflict that erupted in Gaza on October 7. Those living in Bethlehem and working beyond its borders find themselves often blocked by Israeli forces.
Notably, Bethlehem’s decision to cancel Christmas celebrations was not solely a business-driven choice. In a show of solidarity with the people of Gaza, church leaders and the city council opted to abandon festive events. Many residents of Bethlehem have familial ties to Gaza, creating a sense of shared grief for the thousands of civilians lost in the conflict.
Dr. Mitri Raheb, rector of Dar al-Kalima University, emphasized the poignant connection between the Christmas story and the present situation, drawing parallels between the displacement of Jesus’s family and the struggles faced by Palestinians today.
The economic impact on Bethlehem is profound, with hotels, restaurants, and shops bearing the brunt of the decline in tourism. Even businesses specializing in traditional olive wood carvings, including nativity scenes, are facing hardship.
While churches in Bethlehem have scaled back their celebrations to prayers and services, the Evangelical Lutheran Christmas Church has created a nativity display amidst bomb site rubble, sending a powerful message about the harsh realities faced by the region.
The conflict’s ripple effects extend to cultural institutions, such as the Walled Off Hotel and the Tantur Ecumenical Institute, both impacted by closures and disruptions to their usual activities. The situation has left residents and staff grappling with stress and anxiety, as the region witnesses a challenging holiday season overshadowed by geopolitical tensions.