Jerusalem / PNN /

The Patriarchs and Heads of the Churches in Jerusalem called upon their congregations to forego any unnecessarily festive activities for the celebration of Advent and Christmas this year in light of the ongoing brutal Israeli aggression on the Gaza strip.

In a statement, The Patriarchs and Heads of the Churches in Jerusalem stated that each year during the sacred seasons of Advent and Christmastide, the Christian communities throughout the Holy Land take great delight in the celebrations, but these are not normal times. “Since the start of the War, there has been an atmosphere of sadness and pain. Thousands of innocent civilians, including women and children, have died or suffered serious injuries. Many more grieve over the loss of their homes, their loved ones, or the uncertain fate of those dear to them. Throughout the region, even more have lost their work and are suffering from serious economic challenges. Yet despite our repeated calls for a humanitarian ceasefire and a de-escalation of violence, the war continues.”

The Patriarchs and Heads of the Churches in Jerusalem, called upon their congregations to stand strong with those facing such afflictions by this year foregoing any unnecessarily festive activities. “We likewise encourage our priests and the faithful to focus more on the spiritual meaning of Christmas in their pastoral activities and liturgical celebrations during this period, with all the focus directed at holding in our thoughts our brothers and sisters affected by this war and its consequences, and with fervent prayers for just and lasting peace for our beloved Holy Land.”