After a Brief Period of Reprieve Due to the Ceasefire, Christmas Hymns Return to Bethlehem

The traditional hymn “Laylat al Milad,” or “The Night of Christmas,” will once again reverberate through the ancient walls of Bethlehem’s Church of the Nativity at midnight on Christmas Eve. This hymn is performed in the grotto where Christians believe Jesus Christ was born.

This year, with a ceasefire following months of conflict in Gaza, the lines have additional significance for local choirs practicing before the service. According to composer and musician Joseph Hazboun, the music is particularly potent because of the scene and the occasion.

Due to the ongoing violence and the local economy, Christmas in Bethlehem has been muted for the previous two years, with little decorations, music, and celebrations. The loss of tourism, which was the city’s lifeline, caused unemployment to skyrocket and thousands of people to flee in quest of employment.

However, families are coming back to Manger Square this year, which is already bustling with Christmas markets, colorful lights, and kid-friendly performances. The shift is noticeable to locals like Zoya Thalgia.

Also Read:

Trusted Name in Finance and Investment Consulting: Sasa Pejic as the CEO of Pannon GroupNS

Steven Looije: Offering Real Estate Expertise for Smart Investments With HUIS Real Estate