Representing President Mahmoud Abbas, Dr. Ramzi Khouri—Member of the PLO Executive Committee and Head of the Higher Presidential Committee for Church Affairs—took part in the ceremonial lighting of its Christmas tree. The event was also attended by Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Hani Al-Hayek, representing Prime Minister Dr. Mohammad Mustafa, alongside a wide spectrum of official, religious, and community representatives.
The celebration was held in the presence of Bethlehem Governor Mohammad Taha Abu Alia; His Eminence Archbishop Atallah Hanna, Greek Orthodox Archbishop of Sebastia; several mayors; clergy; security officials; representatives of civil society and church institutions; diplomatic delegations; as well as scout, youth, and cultural groups.
Representing the Higher Presidential Committee for Church Affairs were committee member and Director of its Bethlehem Office, Jihad Khair, along with the Director of Public Relations and Media, Raed Hanania.
The lighting of the Christmas tree in Beit Jala carried a powerful message of hope, resilience, and steadfastness, reflecting the Palestinian people’s deep attachment to life and to the universal values of love and peace, despite the difficult circumstances they continue to endure. The event also underscored the importance of cultural and national celebrations in preserving Palestinian identity and conveying Palestine’s message of peace to the world.
This celebration comes as part of the broader preparations for the Christmas holidays across Palestinian cities, reaffirming the deep-rooted and authentic Christian presence in Palestine and highlighting the vital role of municipalities and national institutions in safeguarding the spiritual and cultural character of these occasions.
