After two years of silence and sorrow that enveloped Bethlehem in solidarity with the Gaza Strip, life is gradually returning to the city's streets as preparations begin for Christmas celebrations. This event carries messages of hope and renewal, as the world's attention turns once again to Manger Square, a long-standing symbol of peace and love, to witness the lighting of the Christmas tree and the return of the scout parades that characterize this important religious and national occasion.
This return holds exceptional significance that transcends mere celebration; it represents an attempt to revive the spirit of the Holy City, which has suffered economically and psychologically as a result of the ongoing war. Historically, Bethlehem is the premier pilgrimage destination for Christians worldwide, home to the Church of the Nativity, one of the oldest churches where religious services have been regularly held since its construction in the 4th century AD by Emperor Constantine, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The resumption of the celebrations signifies a renewed focus on this rich cultural and religious heritage.
Economically, tourism is the lifeblood of Bethlehem and its surrounding governorate, with a large portion of the population relying on pilgrims and visitors for their income, whether through hotels, restaurants, or olive wood and oriental souvenir workshops. The halt in tourism and the cancellation of festivals over the past two years led to a severe economic downturn, making the return of events this year a glimmer of hope for reviving the local economy and restoring thousands of jobs affected by the political and security situation.
It is worth noting that the celebrations in Bethlehem are not merely religious rituals, but also a political and humanitarian message from the Palestinian people to the world. As church bells ring and Christmas carols resound, the Palestinian people's right to life and joy, despite their suffering, is reaffirmed. The return of pilgrims and visitors to the Holy City breaks the imposed isolation and reminds the international community of the urgent need to work towards a just and comprehensive peace in the region, so that Bethlehem may remain, as it has always been, a beacon of peace in the land of peace.
