BETHLEHEM, Dec 25, (V7N) – Christians gathered at Bethlehem's Church of the Nativity on Tuesday to mark Christmas in a subdued atmosphere, overshadowed by ongoing war and global unrest.

In the Israeli-occupied West Bank, Manger Square saw muted celebrations. Absent were the vibrant decorations and throngs of international pilgrims of past years, reflecting the somber mood amid the war between Israel and Palestinians in Gaza.

Despite the subdued atmosphere, Archbishop Pierbattista Pizzaballa, the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, delivered a message of resilience: "I saw everything destroyed... but I also saw life. Never give up."

Pope Francis' Message of Peace

At the Vatican, Pope Francis led Christmas mass at St. Peter's Basilica, urging worshippers to think of "wars, machine-gunned children, and bombs on schools or hospitals." His recent strong condemnation of Israeli strikes in Gaza has drawn both praise and criticism.

Gaza's Christian Community Prays Amid Devastation

In Gaza, Christians gathered at the Greek Orthodox Church of Saint Porphyrius, a refuge for many during the war. George al-Sayegh lamented, "There is no joy, no festive spirit. This Christmas carries the stench of death and destruction."

Wider Global Context

Elsewhere, the mood was similarly heavy:

Syria: Christians protested the burning of a Christmas tree in a rebel-held area, fearing for their future under new leadership.

Germany: President Frank-Walter Steinmeier called for healing after a deadly Christmas market attack.

Notre Dame Cathedral: Worshippers celebrated the first Christmas mass since the iconic Paris cathedral reopened following its 2019 fire.

Moments of Joy and Tradition

Amid the challenges, moments of joy persisted. Families worldwide gathered for traditional meals and gift-giving. The North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) reassured children that Santa's deliveries were unaffected by recent drone sightings, with stops already reported in Asia.

This year’s Christmas served as a reminder of the enduring spirit of faith and hope, even in the face of adversity.

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