Bethlehem authorities urge pilgrims to visit Palestine for Christmas
Bethlehem. Photo: open sources.
The Nativity of Christ will once again become the central event in Bethlehem, where the city council addressed residents and pilgrims with the words: "Visit Palestine this Christmas". This is reported by Religion Digital.
The Mayor of Bethlehem, Maher Nicola Canawati, stated on December 3, 2025, that the holiday should become a time of hope and peace for all the people of Palestine. According to him, this Christmas is meant to "revive the Christmas spirit and strengthen the resilience of the residents of Bethlehem", as well as to show that the city is striving for normal life after a long period of tension.
Canawati noted that the restoration of tourism plays an important role in the economic and spiritual healing of the region.
He emphasized that this year Bethlehem opens its doors to all who prayed for the Holy Land and expressed gratitude to the countries that supported peaceful initiatives.
As reported, Islamist violence stroke a Bethlehem church amid Christmas rehearsals.
Read also
Archbishop of Albania supports country's accession to European Union
The Primate of the Albanian Church believes that Albania's accession to the European Union will benefit not only the country and its citizens but also Europe itself.
Cyprus Church Synod permits weddings during Nativity Fast
The Sacrament of Marriage is permitted to be performed from the beginning of the Nativity Fast until December 12.
Cherkasy authorities set up surveillance over Orthodox educational institution
The village of Cherniavka became the site of a special operation by law enforcement against an Orthodox gymnasium, where a hidden surveillance camera was installed on a pole.
Metropolitan Tychikos case to be again considered by Cyprus Church Synod
Holy Archdiocese of Cyprus stated that the appeal filed by Metropolitan Tychikos to the Supreme Court could fundamentally change the assessment of the situation.
His Beatitude: The Lord gives people strength to overcome sin
The Primate emphasized that in the New Testament, Christians receive the gracious power of the Holy Spirit to fight against sin.
Met. Varsonofiy сelebrates Liturgy at persecuted UOC parish in Stryzhavka
A UOC hierarch officiated the Nativity service and offered prayers for peace in Ukraine.