In the face of the conflict unleashed in Gaza, the patriarchs and representatives of the Church in Jerusalem have asked that Christmas celebrations be marked by prudence.
The Church asked for the faithful to be mindful and respectful of those who are facing unimaginable realities and to pray for peace. It is also requested to stop any unnecessary festivities and keep decoration to a minimum.
Jerusalem has been strongly impacted by the conflict. There has been a slowdown in the flow of tourists and pilgrims, and the streets are emptier than usual; a situation that also affects the population from an economic point of view.