Christmas in Bethlehem

Source: LPJ

The Christmas celebrations in Bethlehem commenced on December 24th, 2024, with the solemn procession led by the Patriarch of Jerusalem, Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, as he walked along Bethlehem's Star Street toward the Basilica of the Nativity. While the Scouts refrained from playing their music in solidarity with the people of Gaza, they held up prayer banners calling for justice.

At midnight, St Catherine Church in Bethlehem was filled with both locals and a few pilgrims who had made the journey to Bethlehem, despite the challenges. Together, they prayed for God's light to shine upon those living in darkness, celebrating the birth of Emmanuel.

On Christmas Day, HB Cardinal Pizzaballa presided over the Solemn Mass for the local parishioners, during which he expressed his solidarity with the people of Gaza, Bethlehem, and other areas affected by violence. He encouraged them to follow Christ's example, living with love and trust in God, stating: "You are a sign of hope and a testimony of the Christian faith."

Click below to see pictures from Christmas in Bethlehem:

Christmas meeting with Jerusalem parishioners: www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.989438599882817&type=3

Solemn Entry to Bethlehem and Vespers: www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.989545503205460&type=3

Christmas Midnight Mass: www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.989961373163873&type=3

Christmas Morning Mass: www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.989961373163873&type=3