PICTORIAL: Bethlehem Lights Christmas Tree for First Time Since Gaza War!

PICTORIAL: Bethlehem Lights Christmas Tree for First Time Since Gaza War!

Reported by Marian Opeyemi Fasesan | Sele Media Africa

In a moving display of hope and resilience, Bethlehem lit its Christmas tree for the first time in two years, marking a symbolic return of joy to the historic city after the devastation and grief of the Gaza conflict.

What Happened

• The lighting ceremony took place at Manger Square, near the Church of the Nativity — the traditional birthplace of Jesus Christ.
• Hundreds gathered to witness the illumination, with choirs singing and lights dazzling across the square.
• Local officials said this year’s tree-lighting represents “a message of peace to the world” amid ongoing regional turmoil.

Why It Matters

• Bethlehem, heavily impacted by the ripple effects of the Gaza-Israel war, cancelled previous public celebrations out of respect for lives lost and displaced.
• This year’s event signifies resilience for Christian communities in the Holy Land, especially during a time of political instability and humanitarian crisis.

Visuals

Photos circulating online show the towering Christmas tree adorned with red and gold ornaments, star-topped and glowing against Bethlehem’s historic skyline — a poignant contrast to recent headlines of war.

Citations:

1. Reuters: www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/bethlehem-lights-up-christmas-tree-first-time-since-war-2025-12-06
2. Al Jazeera: www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/12/06/bethlehem-tree-lighting-returns-after-gaza-war
3. Vatican News: www.vaticannews.va/en/church/news/2025-12/bethlehem-christmas-tree-peace-message.html

About The Author

Marian Opeyemi Fasesan

editor

Marian Opeyemi Fasesan is a dynamic journalist and editorial leader committed to excellence in news reporting and storytelling. As the Editor-in-Chief of Sele Media Africa, she ensures daily operations run smoothly while upholding the highest editorial standards. With a strong eye for detail and deep understanding of audience engagement, Marian coordinates content across platforms, guiding teams to produce compelling, timely, and credible news. Her leadership reflects the heart of Sele Media Africa’s mission—to inform, inspire, and elevate voices across the continent.

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