Beirut — Gaza’s small Christian community is observing Christmas for the first time in three years without the immediate threat of war, following a ceasefire that has brought limited calm to the enclave.
Over recent weeks, churches in Gaza have quietly marked the season, lighting Christmas trees and sharing sweets despite the devastation left by months of conflict. On Christmas Eve, the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, led a Mass at Holy Family Church in Gaza City, where he also baptized a newborn, symbolizing hope amid hardship.
Gaza’s Christian population has fallen sharply since the war began in October 2023. Church leaders say the number has dropped from around 1,000 to nearly half, as families fled through medical evacuations or with help from relatives abroad. At least 44 Palestinian Christians have been killed during the conflict, according to officials.
Most of Gaza’s remaining Christians continue to shelter in the enclave’s two main churches, as widespread destruction, displacement, and winter rains make daily life extremely difficult. While celebrations remain subdued, community members say this Christmas represents an attempt to renew life after years of loss.