Christmas in Bethlehem Subdued by Conflict

A mural of the Christchild born amidst the debris of bombed-out Palestine

“Invite the poor to share a meal with you on Christmas Day,” - His Eminence Malcolm Cardinal Ranjith.
 “Colombo Sparkles and Shines …” Streets of Colombo were lit up for the festive season last night. Sri Lanka is gearing up for the festive season” -Daily Mirror online [21/12/2023]. Is this in a contravention of Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith’s thinking?

As the casualties in Gaza from bombing, massacres and starvation rise, it is becoming clear that Israel is instigating “America’s genocide.” Several war crimes have been and continue to be committed by Israel ignoring all existing legislations on War. They are carrying out unlawful indiscriminate attacks harming civilians.  As reported in the World Socialist Web on 22/12/23, in a TV interview, Miri Golan, Israel’s Women’s Advancement Minister, said, “I don’t care about Gaza … for all I care, they can go out and swim in the sea.” She added, “I want to see dead bodies of terrorists around Gaza.”-

Christmas has evolved into a global unifier, transcending religious boundaries, and serving as a time for families to come together, exchange gifts, and revel in the spirit of joy and generosity. As time progressed, a rich tapestry of customs emerged, blending gift-giving, feasting, and joyous caroling, especially during the Middle Ages. In challenging times, finding joy during the holidays is crucial. You can celebrate Christmas without letting economic worries take center stage. Celebrate with free traditions like decorating, or singing carols. Christmas is about love, kindness, and togetherness — the simplest celebrations can be the most meaningful. Quality moments don’t always need a hefty price tag. Cherish time with loved ones through shared stories, games, and creating lasting memories. Instead of pricey dinners, consider a potluck where everyone contributes a dish — a chance to bond while cooking together.

The Christmas Eve Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica, led by Pope Francis, is set to gather thousands in a majestic setting. Last year, the Pope’s homily during this Mass emphasized the humility of Jesus’ birth and criticized those who prioritize wealth and power over helping the vulnerable, condemning war, poverty, and excessive consumerism.  Traditionally, a Midnight Mass is held in Manger Square, at the Basilica of the Nativity located in Bethlehem in the State of Palestine, in the West Bank, where Jesus Christ was born. This celebration, the Catholic world’s second most important Mass, usually attracts over 130,000 pilgrims worldwide. However, the current situation there is tense, with reports indicating a dire circumstance: 600,000 Palestinians facing starvation and tragic casualties, including 126 children killed in the past 24 hours. Preparations in Bethlehem for Christmas are notably subdued this year.

A UN-backed report highlights a delay in the Security Council’s vote on a resolution advocating increased humanitarian aid access to Gaza after extensive negotiations. The report indicates that over 570,000 Palestinians in Gaza are facing severe food shortages and starvation. Recent events have seen tragic consequences, with reports stating that 126 children lost their lives in bombings by Israeli forces in the past 24 hours.

The decision to cancel Christmas festivities, which typically draw thousands of visitors, is dealing a significant blow to the town’s economy, heavily reliant on tourism. Mayor Hana Haniyeh expressed that while the economy is suffering, the current immense suffering of Palestinians in Gaza makes joyful celebrations untenable.” The economy is crashing,” Haniyeh told The Associated Press. “But compared to what’s happening to our people in Gaza, it’s nothing.”

The loss of 67 media workers in just two and a half months, including 62 Palestinians, four Israelis, and three Lebanese among them is a distressing reality. Journalists face extreme risks, and the current situation has seen an unprecedented rate of journalist fatalities, according to the Committee to Protect Journalists. Despite the risks, journalists persist in providing vital information to the world about the impact of violence on civilians in these areas.

Interestingly, during the Puritan era, festivities were discouraged, but the Victorian period saw a resurgence of Christmas traditions, with the widespread adoption of Christmas trees and greeting cards. The 20th century witnessed a significant shift toward commercialism, shaping the contemporary celebration we know today. Christmas symbolizes values like love, kindness, and the joy of giving, making it a celebration cherished by many around the world.

The situation in the island nation remains precarious,” stated His Eminence Malcolm Cardinal Ranjith, urging the Christians to partake in the spirit of giving, especially during these trying times; he encouraged them to extend invitations to the hungry and less fortunate to share in a Christmas meal. Calling upon Catholics, all Christians and those of goodwill, he urged them to embrace the true essence of Christmas by extending generosity to those in need within their communities. His plea was clear: “Share your Christmas this year with the poor in your neighborhood or surroundings.” He expressed his intention to join a feeding program on Christmas Day, aiming to share meals with those experiencing hunger, as an act of solidarity. The spiritual leader of the country’s 1.5 million Catholics highlighted the prevalent cycle of borrowing and even resorting to pawning valuables like silver and gold, causing immense stress for many individuals. Emphasizing the significance of acknowledging the hardships faced during Christmas, he underscored Jesus Christ’s birth in poverty as a poignant symbol. Cardinal Ranjith extended a heartfelt wish for a “very happy Christmas,” yet reiterated that genuine happiness transcends mere indulgence in drinking, eating, and revelry.

Giving your time or resources to those in need can bring immense joy. Consider volunteering at a local shelter or donating to a charity, extending help to anyone in need, transcending barriers of religion, race, age, and gender. CandleAid, founded by Capt Elmo Jayawardena & Dil Jayawardena and assisted by their dedicated team, exemplify this principle. They transcend barriers of religion, race, age, and gender to extend help to anyone in need. Acting as rescuers navigating tough situations with those they assist, their main goal is to empower individuals towards self-sufficiency. Among numerous social service activities conducted throughout the year, for this Christmas, they distributed parcels of dry rations worth Rs 10,000 each to meticulously selected 150 deserving poor families, a project funded by altruistic donors.

The holiday season serves as a beautiful reminder to reflect on the year, express gratitude, and strengthen bonds with loved ones. It’s a time when differences tend to fade away, and the focus shifts to our shared values and experiences. Christmas, in particular, has a remarkable ability to transcend religious boundaries, bringing people together in a spirit of unity and shared joy. It’s a testament to the universal themes of love, kindness, and spreading happiness that resonates across cultures and beliefs, fostering a sense of togetherness and goodwill among people worldwide.

Merry Christmas and warmest wishes for the season!
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