Iconic Bethlehem Church Holds Christmas Prayers in Solidarity with Gaza
On Monday morning, the church's bells tolled, and prayers commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ were recited, aligning with the Eastern Christian calendar, raialyoum news website reported.
Worshippers dedicated their prayers to the people of Gaza, particularly children, calling for an end to the ongoing Israeli genocidal against the Palestinian territory.
This marks the second consecutive year that Bethlehem and the Church of the Nativity have commemorated Christmas without festive decorations, reflecting sorrow for Gaza's plight.
The traditional lights and large Christmas tree that usually adorn Manger Square were notably absent, and the area lacked the usual influx of foreign tourists.
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Local Christians from Bethlehem and other Palestinian areas gathered at the church from the morning hours, engaging in prayers and supplications for an end to the war.
The Church of the Nativity, believed by Christians to be built over the grotto where Jesus was born, holds profound significance for the Christian community worldwide.
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