In a powerful joint Christmas message, Christian leaders in the Holy Land have emphasized the enduring significance of the Nativity of Jesus Christ while calling for an end to the ongoing hostilities in the region. Released on December 13, the message was signed by the Patriarchs and Heads of Churches in Jerusalem, who proclaimed to both local congregations and the wider world the eternal message of Christmas: the birth of Jesus Christ, the True Light that shines in the darkness.

The leaders expressed their steadfast commitment to sharing the joy and hope of Christ's birth amidst the backdrop of ongoing conflict and uncertainty in the Middle East. “In the midst of these dark days of continuing conflict and uncertainty in our region, we remain steadfast in proclaiming the eternal Christmas message,” the message reads. The leaders highlighted that the light of God’s salvation first came into the world through Christ's birth in Bethlehem, offering grace upon grace to overcome the dark forces of evil.

Acknowledging the difficult circumstances facing the region, the church leaders thanked God for the recent ceasefire on the Lebanese front of the Israeli conflict and called for the same spirit of peace to extend to Gaza and other areas affected by war. They urged an end to the violence that has plagued the region for years and appealed for the release of captives, the return of displaced individuals, medical care for the sick and wounded, and the rebuilding of institutions and restoration of properties taken unjustly.

The ongoing Israel-Gaza conflict has resulted in over 45,000 casualties in Gaza since October 7, 2023, with many more suffering in the surrounding areas. In addition, Christians in neighboring Syria face heightened uncertainty after jihadist rebel forces recently toppled President Bashar al-Assad’s government.

Reflecting on the struggles of early Christians, the church leaders noted that despite enduring hardship, they spread the message of Christ’s resurrection throughout the Holy Land and beyond. This same message, they said, continues to inspire believers today to stand firm in the face of conflict. The leaders emphasized that, although the outward circumstances may seem unchanged, the birth of Jesus Christ sparked a spiritual revolution that continues to transform hearts and minds towards justice, mercy, and peace.

In their message, the leaders called on Christians everywhere to pray for and work towards peace, both in Christ’s homeland and in regions plagued by conflict. They urged all believers to join in honoring the Prince of Peace, born humbly in a stable in Bethlehem over two millennia ago.