Hear Angels Cry, a voice rises to declare hope in Bethlehem

See links below to stream or buy.

In order to honour the many thousands of lives lost in Gaza - (many of whom have family members on the West Bank) the Bethlehem Municipality in Palestine has chosen to forgo the traditional festive decorations and Christmas tree lighting. However, amid the rubble and ruins, a poignant voice rises to declare that the light of hope will persist in the small West Bank town where the Christmas story unfolded.

Youstina Safar, a resident of Bethlehem and a student at Bethlehem University, has collaborated with the London-based band Oooberfuse to deliver a powerful message through their Christmas song: 'Hear Angels Cry.' The song resonates with the belief that hope for a better future, born in the hearts of humanity, remains resilient in the face of military aggression.

Youstina shares: "In the midst of despair, our song 'Hear Angels Cry' stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of hope in Bethlehem, Palestine. While the traditional Christmas displays may dim this year in remembrance of lives lost in Gaza, our voices unite to affirm that hope will never succumb to darkness."

Cherrie Anderson, from Ooberfuse, says: "As we embarked on this music project in June, we never anticipated the cancellation of Christmas displays in Bethlehem, Palestine. The dimming lights in Manger Square honour those who have tragically lost their lives in the Holy Land. 'Hear Angels Cry' embodies Jesus' message of love, prevailing even in the face of hopelessness. All proceeds from the song will directly benefit those suffering in Gaza, particularly the children reconstructing the fragments of their lives."

As a partner in this project, John Handal, the Music Producer from Bethlehem, Palestine, and the owner of RJ Music company has played a crucial role in bringing this collaboration to life. His commitment to the project reflects a shared vision of using music as a beacon of hope and healing in the region.

John Handal comments: "It's an honour to be part of a project that transcends borders and brings together artists from Bethlehem, Palestine, and London. 'Hear Angels Cry' is a testament to the enduring power of music to convey messages of peace and resilience. Through our collaboration, we aim to shine a light on the indomitable spirit of Bethlehem, Palestine, and support those affected by the conflicts in the Holy Land."

"Hear Angels Cry" is not just a song but a heartfelt plea for unity, compassion, and the enduring power of hope, even in the most challenging circumstances. This Christmas, the world is invited to join in this message of solidarity and support for those affected by the ongoing struggles in the Holy Land.

Watch the song on Youtube now: https://bit.ly/418x6lF

Stream on Spotify: https://spoti.fi/46JOQVo

Buy on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3GuduPo

Stream on Apple Music: https://apple.co/46Ik9jk

All funds raised will go to Friends of the Holy Land.

FHL is a small ecumenical Christian Charity (registered charity in England and Wales 1202568) working from an office in Kenilworth, but with groups and supporters across England and Scotland. FHL have been operating for over ten years having been founded in 2009 inspired by a Pilgrimage in 2007, a number of returning Pilgrims felt called to do something to improve the lives of Christians living in the Land that is at the root of their faith.

FHL operates an office in Bethlehem to support vulnerable Christians. In addition to meeting their direct emergency needs, when families fall into financial difficulty, FHL's team in Bethlehem also works with other partner agencies to support vulnerable Christians with medical costs and school fees. Both of which can be very expensive often accounting for as much as a quarter of a normal household's yearly income.

Friends of the Holy Land have two major projects in Bethlehem, School of Joy providing education and therapy to disabled children and St Martha's House which is a day centre for elderly women, mainly widows or those whose family have emigrated. FHL also provide long term support to St Luke's Hospital in Nablus, by supporting a medical exemption fund for the local Christian population.

FHL patrons include the Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby, Archbishop of Westminster Vincent Nichols, Archbishop of Birmingham Bernard Longley and Dr Rowan Williams.

For more information on FHL see: www.friendsoftheholyland.org.uk/