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In view of the war in the Middle East, Francis added: “Our hearts are tonight in Bethlehem, where the Prince of Peace is still rejected by the doomed logic of war, by the noise of weapons.”
This year the festival is mainly influenced by the wars in the Gaza Strip and Ukraine. About 7,000 people attended the service in St. Peter’s Basilica, according to the Vatican. In addition, the events on St. Peter’s Square in front of the church were watched by thousands on large screens. On Monday, Pope Francis will pronounce the Urbi et Orbi blessing for the city and the world from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica.
Christmas is being celebrated very quietly this year in the Holy Land due to the Gaza war between Israel and the Islamic Hamas. In Bethlehem on the West Bank – according to tradition the birthplace of Jesus Christ – there are hardly any tourists, contrary to normal. There were no Christmas trees. Access to the city is extremely limited due to Israeli army roadblocks. There are also virtually no Christmas decorations in Jerusalem. (SDA)
Source: Blick
I am Amelia James, a passionate journalist with a deep-rooted interest in current affairs. I have more than five years of experience in the media industry, working both as an author and editor for 24 Instant News. My main focus lies in international news, particularly regional conflicts and political issues around the world.
