His Beatitude Theophilos III, Patriarch of the Holy City of Jerusalem and All Palestine and Jordan of the Greek Orthodox Church, together with Dr. Ramzi Khouri, Member of the PLO Executive Committee and Head of the Higher Presidential Committee for Church Affairs in Palestine, inaugurated today the restoration of the historic Dabba’i House in Ramallah. The renovation—funded by the Committee—has been fully completed. The opening coincided with the ceremonial lighting of the Christmas tree at the Greek Orthodox Church of the Transfiguration in Ramallah.
The event was attended by a distinguished gathering of bishops and clergy, the Deputy Mayor of Ramallah, representatives of local churches, members of the church council, and parish families.
The celebration began with prayers led by His Beatitude, followed by Christmas hymns performed by parish children. The Christmas tree was then illuminated in the church courtyard, filling the space with a joyful festive atmosphere. His Beatitude later presented gifts to the children, underscoring the spirit of Christmas and its enduring message of hope and joy.
Speaking on behalf of the Patriarch, Father Issa Musleh, the official spokesperson of the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate, conveyed His Beatitude’s blessing for the accomplishment and expressed deep appreciation for the Higher Presidential Committee’s efforts in delivering the project and its ongoing support for church institutions.
Dr. Khouri highlighted the significance of preserving and revitalizing historical buildings as a vital part of Ramallah’s cultural and architectural heritage. He reaffirmed the Committee’s commitment to supporting church institutions in Palestine and strengthening their role in serving the community.
He added that hope is reflected in the eyes of Palestinian children, emphasizing that despite the difficult circumstances in Gaza, the West Bank, and Jerusalem, the Palestinian people remain steadfast and deeply rooted in their homeland: “From Bethlehem emerged the light of peace, and from the land of the Nativity, the meaning of resilience and hope is renewed.”
Also attending the ceremony were Committee Member and Head of the Projects Committee, Mousa Hadid, along with members of the Committee’s staff.
The inauguration comes as Christmas celebrations continue throughout the governorates of Palestine—from Christmas markets to tree-lighting ceremonies—reflecting the commitment of the Palestinian people to the message of Christmas: a message of hope, peace, and justice amid all challenges.
