Faith Facts

• Bethlehem’s public Christmas tree lighting returned in 2025 after a two-year pause caused by conflict.
• Church leaders and families united on Manger Square, highlighting faith, resilience, and the enduring message of Christ’s birth.
• Christian and civic leaders linked the event to hope for peace and economic renewal in the region.

This year, Bethlehem’s Christmas tree lighting ceremony broke a two-year silence, celebrating the return of hope and unity in the birthplace of Jesus.

Attendees, including church dignitaries and local families, gathered to mark this moment of spiritual renewal and resilience in the midst of ongoing challenges.

Bethlehem’s mayor spoke of the city’s steadfast faith and its message of justice and freedom made possible in Christ, shining anew for the world.

Dr. Ramzi Khoury, on behalf of the Palestinian president, emphasized that the birth of Christ is not just a story from the past but a living reminder that God’s hope and peace endure, even when darkness surrounds.

Blessings and prayers for peace were offered as the Christmas lights shone from Manger Square, honoring Christ’s birth and inspiring those burdened by hardship.

“From the Shadows of War… Peace Is Born,”

The municipality’s presentation echoed the core biblical promise that Christ brings light in any season of trial.

Regional Christian leaders saw the strong turnout as a powerful witness to the world, celebrating unity and the enduring love of God.

“It was distinguished by the number of participants and dignitaries who accepted the invitation, the generosity of international and local sponsors, and the quality of the program,” said Latin Bishop William Shomali.

The program featured greetings from global Christian leaders and music from diverse church traditions, underscoring Bethlehem’s place as the capital of Christmas.

Evangelical leaders, like Rev. Jack Sara, were deeply moved by the community’s faith in action.

“It felt like everyone was hoping and praying for the success of the event and for the return of hope to our Palestinian people after the dark last two years,” said Rev. Jack Sara.

He praised the biblical foundation of the carols and messages, expressing the prayer that Christ’s light of peace and justice shines brightly even amid adversity.

Shireen Awwad Hilal noted this year’s quieter joy was rooted in the sure promise that God’s light is never extinguished.

“Hope entered the world not in comfort, but in a humble manger, reminding us that God’s light seeks out even the darkest valleys,” said Hilal.

This spiritual revival also brings hope for Bethlehem’s local economy, as renewed celebrations encourage the gradual return of pilgrims and travelers.

Though the wounds of conflict are deep, rising tourism and restored community gatherings reflect the uplifting power of faith at work.

Let us remember and proclaim the truth that in Christ, the light of hope shines on, calling us to prayer, service, and steadfast faith even in uncertain times.

Read the original Christian Daily article

Faith Facts

• Jonathan Evans was formally installed as lead pastor of Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship Church.
• Pastor Tony Evans passed his own father’s Bible to his son as a symbol of legacy and faithfulness.
• Tony Evans completed a restoration process, affirming repentance and biblical restoration values.

On Sunday, Jonathan Evans was celebrated as the new leader of Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship Church in Dallas, marking a significant generational transition rooted in faith and service.

Pastor Tony Evans, the church’s founder, joyfully presented Jonathan with the treasured family Bible, symbolizing a heritage passed through faith and dedication to God’s Word.

“This is my father’s Bible. Well worn, used, because he loved God’s word. Teaching it, preaching it, and executing it. What better thing for a father to give a son that can go to his grandson than the Word of God? So, I gift you my daddy’s Bible. And I love you, and I’m proud of you.”

As Jonathan took up his new role, he called the congregation to unity and purpose, referencing Joshua 1:3 while encouraging all to walk in God’s promised path together.

“And now [I] just say this. Joshua 1:3. Everywhere your foot treads, I have given it to you already. Just like I have done before with Moses. And so what we’re going to do together, we have to do it together.”

Tony Evans, recently restored after a year-long process guided by biblical principles and church accountability, remains confident in the Lord’s continued purpose for his life beyond leadership at Oak Cliff.

“He still has a purpose for my life and gifts as long as He has me here. So don’t feel bad for Moses, and don’t feel bad for me because Joshua is going to lead you. But at the right time, God’s going to take me to the mountain he has for me to keep His kingdom moving forth. So hang in there with the new leader. Support him. Love him just as you did your founder.”

Associate Pastor Chris Wheel affirmed Tony Evans’ journey of repentance, humility, and godly sorrow, noting that these reflect true adherence to Christian restoration and accountability before the congregation.

Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship stands united in faith as it embraces new leadership, built on a foundation of biblical heritage and commitment to advancing God’s Kingdom.

Read more at Christian Post

Faith Facts

• Bethlehem and Jerusalem held public Christmas celebrations for the first time in two years, bringing hope amid ongoing hardship.
• Community and church leaders emphasized the spiritual significance and unity found in the return of these cherished festivities.
• Despite economic challenges, families and local Christians welcomed the Christmas lights as a message of faith and perseverance.

Bethlehem’s Manger Square recently came alive as thousands witnessed the city’s Christmas tree illuminate the night, a tradition joyfully restored after a period of pause.

Leaders from the Custody of the Holy Land, including Fr Rafael Tayem and Fr Francesco Ielpo, joined Mayor Maher Nicola Canawati to celebrate this renewed symbol of unity.

“Some may say it’s not appropriate and others say it’s appropriate,” he said to a BBC reporter.

He continued: “But deep inside my heart, I felt that this was the right thing to do because Christmas should never be stopped or cancelled. This is the light of hope for us.”

Although the city faces ongoing financial strain and a struggling tourism sector, public celebrations mark a turning point that lifts spirits and restores long-held traditions.

Many local Christian families face a sparse Christmas, yet the revival of festivities points toward hope and enduring faith.

Nadya Hazboun, a local jewellery designer, shared with the BBC: “This is where it all started, so this is where we can send the message to the world of what really Christmas should be about. And this year, if Christmas is peaceful, then I hope it will bring a nice message for the whole world.”

The event featured music, addresses from dignitaries, and a lively parade, reflecting Bethlehem’s role in sharing a message of peace and hope born from faith.

In Jerusalem, the Christmas Festival at Terra Santa School resumed as families and students gathered, culminating in the lighting of the rooftop tree.

The choir from the Helen Keller School of Beit Hanina inspired audiences, demonstrating Christian charity and the inclusive warmth that the season represents.

Through every carol and prayer, believers in these cities reminded the world that the true light of Christmas shines brightest in times of hardship, drawing communities together through the steadfastness of faith and hope for a brighter tomorrow.

Stand firm in prayer for brothers and sisters across the Holy Land, and let these renewed celebrations remind us all of the enduring promises found in Christ.

Read More