Cardinal Pizzaballa brings Christmas message of hope from Gaza and Bethlehem

The Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, delivered a Christmas message of resilience from Bethlehem on Wednesday, focusing on the plight of Gaza amid Israel’s ongoing military campaign. Arriving to lead midnight Mass at the Church of the Nativity, Pizzaballa acknowledged the “total destruction” in Gaza but emphasized the unbroken will of its people.

A Testament to Endurance and Faith

“Our hearts today are with Gaza, where there is total destruction,” Pizzaballa said. “Yet despite everything, its people still have a passion for life, a will to rejoice and a refusal to surrender.” He added that Gaza, like Bethlehem, “carries a message of steadfastness and hope,” affirming that faith in life and peace remains stronger than devastation.

Commitment to Rebuild and Celebrate

The Cardinal expressed determination to celebrate Christmas in both Gaza and Bethlehem and to rebuild what has been lost. “We will celebrate in Gaza and in Bethlehem. We will continue to celebrate every day and return to rebuild everything anew,” he stated. His message underscored the continuity of spiritual and communal life even amid profound loss.

Context of Suffering and Exclusion

More than 71,000 Palestinians, mostly women and children, have been killed in Gaza since October 2023, with over 171,000 injured and the territory left in ruins. In the West Bank, at least 1,103 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli forces or settlers during the same period. Earlier on Wednesday, Israeli authorities barred Palestinian Vice President Hussein al-Sheikh from attending the Christmas Mass in Bethlehem, highlighting ongoing restrictions on Palestinian movement and participation.

Bethlehem’s Global Symbolism

Bethlehem, revered as the birthplace of Jesus, is a major spiritual destination for Christian pilgrims, especially during Christmas. Pizzaballa framed the city as a beacon: “Today is a true Christmas here in Bethlehem, and from here the message of Bethlehem and the Holy Land goes out to the entire world.”