By Marinella Bandini
Bethlehem, Dec 26, 2024 / 10:50 am
The atmosphere in Bethlehem, the town where Jesus was born, was more relaxed this Christmas.
The Latin patriarch of Jerusalem, Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, who was the object of a protest in the town at last year’s celebration, spoke to the people from Manger Square, where a stage was set up.
“Our commitment this Christmas is to rebuild our trust and renew our hope for life here in Bethlehem and throughout Palestine,” the patriarch said.
“We believe that the light has come to us, and the light is Jesus Christ. We belong to the light, not to darkness. We may not have lights, but we are the light,” he declared.
“Take courage, don’t be afraid; we will not allow the war to erase our lives,” Pizzaballa added. The war in Gaza still casts its shadow over Bethlehem, which has suffered a severe economic crisis, with shop shutters down and several hotels closed.
Along the streets, there were some families who brought their children and asked the Patriarch for a blessing. And he did not fail to offer his greeting, a kiss, and a blessing for the young and old alike.
For its part, the municipality once again did not promote Christmas events, even though many of the local Christians would have liked a sign of celebration.
Welcome to Bethlehem, where tradition meets faith and compassion. George, a native of Bethlehem, shared with CNA the importance of not forgetting those who suffer, even in the midst of celebrating our faith. “It’s our tradition. To show our faith doesn’t mean forgetting those who suffer. We could have done something in a different way,” he expressed.
Over at the Basilica of the Nativity, Brother Anania Jacek, the Franciscan sacristan, meticulously prepared for the Christmas Eve Mass in the Grotto of the Nativity. The highlight of the evening was when the patriarch reverently placed the statue of the baby Jesus, symbolizing the true essence of Christmas.
As the day drew to a close, the Church of St. Catherine buzzed with excitement as the faithful gathered to celebrate. The unveiling and incensing of the baby Jesus statue was a poignant moment, capturing the essence of the season.
Amidst a challenging year filled with trials and tribulations, the patriarch’s homily echoed a message of hope and faith. “The angels’ song of glory, joy, and peace seems to be out of tune after a tiring year full of tears, bloodshed, suffering, in addition to shattered hopes and crushed plans for peace and justice,” he began.
Yet, he urged, “we are called by tonight’s angels to live in faith and hope.” The Child of Bethlehem serves as a beacon of light, guiding us through history with trust and hope in our hearts.
(Story continues below)
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