AEI Pax Christi Bethlehem Christmas Message

Toine van Teeffelen, from the Pax Christi partner, Arab Education Institute in Bethlehem writes on: 'The Rebirth of Humanity in a Time of Conflict'

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

In the face of trials, injustices, atrocities, and the heartbreaking loss of life, especially among children, civilians, and the elderly, as well as the destruction of all of God's creatures, particularly in the Holy Land of the three monotheistic religions, I urge the peoples of the free world, the governments of great powers, fellow Arab leaders, and all individuals of goodwill to join in reflecting on the true essence of Christmas: Humanity.

Let us express our humanity not only through prayers and a deepening of our faith, hope, and love in God but also through humanitarian actions and deeds. It is imperative that we actively work to halt acts of evil, violence, and provide unconditional humanitarian aid for those suffering in this catastrophic and bloody war. Additionally, we must swiftly intervene to impose a ceasefire, mobilize international protection, and deploy peacekeeping forces on the path to implementing all UN resolutions related to ending occupation and addressing the root causes of the conflict. In doing so, we can collectively strive to restore humanity to its bright, Godly image.

May this Christmas inspire a commitment to compassion, justice, and peace, and may our actions reflect the true spirit of the season.

May these Advent, Christmas, and New Year seasons, which we strive to remember rather than celebrate as the people of the Holy Land amidst pain, human losses, suffering, and displacement, become moments of joy, justice, freedom, security, and salvation for all of us as equal humans created in the image of God.

In conclusion, AEI Pax Christi in Bethlehem extends hope and makes an earnest appeal to all to exert influence on the global powers driven by economic interests, urging them to foster a better, more peaceful world of friendship.
May the approaching New Year mark a decisive period to bring an end to occupation, allowing all the living stones in the Holy Land to recognize their humanity and dignity as free, peaceful nations, enjoying full rights for all.

Wishing a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to All Humanity

"Glory to God in the highest, on earth peace, good will toward men."

Christmas Hymn:

We are in Christmas when Jesus Christ is born in our hearts and when we apply and live and serve the causes of justice, equality, peace and love as mentioned in our Christmas Arabic Carol.
When we give a cup of water for the thirst, we are in Christmas.
When we clothe the naked, out of love we are in Christmas.
When we wipe out tears from others' eyes, we are in Christmas.
When I kiss my friend without cheating, I'm in Christmas.
When I get rid of the spirit of revenge, I'm in Christmas
When I melted into the entity of God, I'm in Christmas
On the Christmas Eve, hatred erased, on the Christmas Eve the earth blooms
On the Christmas Eve war will stop
On the Christmas Eve, love sprouts
To end up let us all try to deepen our faith in God in ourselves, in our sumud or resilience, pray and sing with the angels: 'Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace to men of good will'.