Gaza City – Christians in Gaza observed Christmas on Wednesday for the first time in two years, holding subdued religious services amid the destruction left by Israel’s war on the enclave, according to Al Jazeera.
Worshippers gathered at Gaza City’s Holy Family Church, the territory’s only Catholic parish, where a Christmas tree was lit, and prayers were held despite ongoing humanitarian hardship. The celebration was modest, reflecting the toll of prolonged conflict, mass displacement, and loss experienced by the enclave’s population.
Humanitarian Needs Remain Acute Despite Ceasefire
Al Jazeera reported that the church had previously served as a shelter for displaced families during periods of intense bombardment. Gaza’s Christian population, estimated at around 1,000 before the war began in October 2023, has since declined sharply, as residents fled or lost their homes.
Worshippers attending the Christmas service described the holiday as emotionally challenging but symbolically significant. Many families remain displaced or living amid widespread destruction, while access to basic services across Gaza continues to be severely limited, according to the report.
The observance took place during a fragile ceasefire, providing a rare pause after months of fighting that devastated much of the enclave’s infrastructure and displaced the majority of its population. While Christmas rituals resumed, Al Jazeera said humanitarian needs remain acute and prospects for recovery uncertain.
Refrence: First Christmas in Gaza in two years: A story of hope and survival
