Preparing for Christmas at Jesus' Home Town
Despite ongoing violence and threats in the Middle East, Christians in Bethlehem are celebrating Christmas at the place traditionally believed to be the birthplace of Jesus Christ.
According to the International Herald Tribune, there are still many “woes” that force Christians out of the small city. “An estimated 3,000 Christians in the Bethlehem area have moved,” and “there is a consensus that 10 percent or more of the Christian population in Bethlehem and two adjourning town has left,” according to the Tribune.
However, according to sources, the Israeli government may be easing the law preventing Israeli citizens from entering Bethlehem – an area under full Palestinian control. West Bank Christians will be enter Bethlehem with no restriction on the number of people. Additionally, 500 Christian religious figures will be allowed to go Bethlehem for religious ceremonies.
