In a powerful statement, the Patriarchs and Heads of Churches in Jerusalem have reaffirmed their call for Christians in the Holy Land to observe the seasons of Advent and Christmas, even in the face of ongoing conflict. Despite the devastation brought by war, the message of hope and peace through the birth of Christ remains at the core of this year’s observance.
Last year, in solidarity with those suffering due to the outbreak of war, the Christian leaders of Jerusalem made the decision to forgo public Christmas displays and festivities. Their intent was to express sympathy and unity with the people facing immense hardship. However, this decision was misunderstood by many, with some even interpreting it as the "Cancellation of Christmas" in the Holy Land, the birthplace of the Lord. As a result, the profound message of Christmas – light emerging from darkness – was unintentionally diminished.
This year, the Patriarchs are determined to highlight the true essence of Christmas by encouraging all congregations in the region to celebrate Advent and Christmas with public signs of Christian hope. While acknowledging the region's ongoing suffering, they call upon Christians to embrace the season with kindness and charity, welcoming others in the spirit of Christ’s love. “During dark times similar to those we face today, angels announced Christ’s birth, bringing good news of peace,” the statement reminds. It calls upon people to continue praying, showing acts of kindness, and extending love to those in need, just as Christ embraced all of humanity.
The Patriarchs stressed that their message of hope is a reminder to the world that even amidst adversity, the light of Christ remains. “We must hold on to the hope brought by Christ’s birth,” said Cardinal Pierbattista Pisaballa, the Patriarch of Jerusalem. “The way to peace may seem unclear, but our faith in divine hope has never wavered.”
As the Holy Land enters the Advent and Christmas seasons, the call is clear: to live the message of Christmas by spreading peace, hope, and love, even during the darkest times. In this season of celebration, let us remember to keep others in our prayers, welcoming them with open arms and hearts.
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