As Palestinian Christians in Gaza prepare for Christmas amid a fragile ceasefire, rare signs of color, glitter, and lights are visible in a city largely covered by rubble and damaged buildings, Baltimore Chronicle reports with reference to ABC News.
After two years of continuous conflict, the small remaining Christian community in Gaza is celebrating their first holiday season without the constant threat of bombardment. With the ceasefire holding for over two months since its initial phase, residents hope for lasting peace while practicing traditions such as decorating Christmas trees and baking holiday pastries. Mousa Ayyad, coordinator of the Princess Basma Christian center in Gaza, stated that this Christmas symbolizes “a new beginning” toward peace and stability in the region.
The Princess Basma Center, located inside Al-Ahli Hospital—the only Christian hospital in Gaza—provides crucial rehabilitation services for children. Ayyad emphasized the importance of maintaining a joyful atmosphere for children, even for those who are displaced from their homes, to nurture hope and happiness during the holiday season.
According to a United Nations assessment, over 80% of buildings in the Gaza Strip had been damaged as of October 11, 2025. Despite widespread destruction, the Holy Family Church, the only Catholic church in Gaza, remains standing, though showing signs of damage.
Since the outbreak of the conflict between Israel and Hamas, which began with a surprise attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, nearly half of Gaza’s Christian population has fled, and at least 23 Palestinian Christians have been killed, according to the Holy Family Church. Around 500 Christians remain, with most currently sheltering in the church.
Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, conducted his first Mass in Gaza following the ceasefire at the Holy Family Church on December 21, marking what he described as a “new phase.” Amid modest decorations and damaged surroundings, Pizzaballa administered first communion to several children and baptized a baby, continuing his longstanding pastoral tradition during Christmas visits to Gaza.
During a press conference, Pizzaballa highlighted both the hope and challenges facing Gazan Christians. While he noted “a desire for a new life,” he warned that issues such as housing, education, healthcare, living conditions, and poverty remain severe. He also emphasized the resilience of the community, describing their steadfastness as a lesson to the world.
Eleven-year-old displaced Christian George Messaqo shared his mixed emotions, expressing joy at celebrating Christmas again but also mourning family lost during the conflict. “Before the war, Christmas was more beautiful,” he said, recalling a warmer atmosphere surrounded by relatives and friends. George explained that most of his family now lives abroad and can only communicate through video calls, expressing his hope to reunite with loved ones and experience peace.
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