Patriarch Theophilos of Jerusalem celebrates Christmas service in Bethlehem

Christmas in the Old City of Bethlehem. Photo: press service of the Jerusalem Patriarchate

On the night of January 6–7, 2026, in Bethlehem, Patriarch Theophilos III of Jerusalem celebrated the Christmas service at the Church of the Nativity of Christ, according to the Jerusalem Patriarchate’s press service.

The festive observances began the previous afternoon with the traditional solemn procession. Patriarch Theophilos III arrived at Manger Square – the central square of Bethlehem, located in front of the Church of the Nativity – where he was welcomed by pilgrims, local Christians, and clergy. A service then took place in the Church of the Nativity.

The Divine Liturgy began at midnight. In the Church of the Nativity, hierarchs of the Jerusalem Orthodox Church, representatives of other Local Churches, and numerous faithful prayed together with Patriarch Theophilos.

During the day on January 6, an official reception was held in Bethlehem with the participation of Patriarch Theophilos, the episcopate, clergy, as well as representatives of the Palestinian Authority and the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan. In his address, the Patriarch recalled the spiritual significance of Bethlehem as the place of Christ’s Nativity.

After the Liturgy concluded, the Patriarch and clergy descended to the Grotto of the Nativity in Bethlehem, where Gospel readings were proclaimed and prayers for peace were offered.

Earlier, the UOJ wrote that the Patriarch of Jerusalem called on the Churches to support the Christians of the Holy Land.

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