Christmas Celebrations Return to Bethlehem After Two-Year Hiatus
Christmas celebrations will resume in the historic city of Bethlehem in the West Bank after a two-year pause due to the conflict in Gaza. Mayor Maher Canawati announced that festivities will kick off on December 6, 2023, with a ceremonial lighting of the Christmas tree in the renowned Manger Square. This event marks a significant return to tradition for a city deeply associated with the holiday season and the birthplace of Jesus Christ.
In a video shared on social media, Mayor Canawati expressed his excitement for the upcoming celebrations. He stated, “From the heart of Bethlehem, the birthplace of Christ, the city of peace — once again, we ignite the flame of hope and raise our prayers for peace.” He encouraged both locals and visitors to come together, celebrating the message of Christmas with the words, “Glory to God in the highest — on Earth, peace, goodwill to all. Bethlehem keeps the light alive.”
Manger Square, located in the heart of Bethlehem, is named after the manger where Jesus was traditionally believed to have been laid after his birth. It serves as the focal point for the holiday celebrations. The city typically attracts thousands of pilgrims and tourists from around the globe during this time. In 2019, former Mayor Anton Salman projected that the city would welcome approximately 1.4 million visitors for the Christmas festivities, highlighting the importance of this season for both the local community and the tourism sector.
The significance of the celebrations extends beyond mere festivities. Robert Jeffress, senior pastor of the First Baptist Church in Dallas, Texas, remarked on the importance of the event, stating, “It is encouraging to see the ‘little town of Bethlehem’ once again celebrating the birth of the most important person in history.” He acknowledged the temporary peace that has allowed for these celebrations but also noted that “such a peace is only temporary.” Jeffress emphasized the biblical perspective that lasting peace in the Middle East will only be achieved when the “Prince of Peace, Jesus Christ, returns to Earth to establish his kingdom.”
The Church of the Nativity, which is built over the grotto traditionally identified as the birthplace of Jesus, underwent renovations in 2019, enhancing its significance as a pilgrimage site. This year’s festivities are expected to draw significant interest, as they symbolize resilience and hope in a region that has faced ongoing challenges.
With preparations underway, Bethlehem looks forward to welcoming visitors who seek to experience the rich traditions and spiritual significance of Christmas in this iconic location. The return of these celebrations is not just a local event; it represents a broader message of hope and peace that resonates globally.
