Christmas in Palestine 2012 – in pictures

Last update Dec 22, 2012
Continuous updates of new photos during the Christmas 2012

Click on one of the photos to start a slideshow
To Christian related news during the season will be continuously updates below this album

Dec 11 2012 – Bethlehem celebrates Christmas tree lighting Photo by Ahmed Mazhar- WAFA

Dec 11 2012 – Bethlehem celebrates Christmas tree lighting Photo by Ahmed Mazhar- WAFA

Dec 11 2012 – Bethlehem celebrates Christmas tree lighting Photo by Ahmed Mazhar- WAFA

Dec 11 2012 – Bethlehem celebrates Christmas tree lighting Photo by Ahmed Mazhar- WAFA

Dec 11 2012 – Bethlehem celebrates Christmas tree lighting Photo by Ahmed Mazhar- WAFA

Dec 11 2012 – Bethlehem celebrates Christmas tree lighting Photo by Ahmed Mazhar- WAFA

Dec 11 2012 – Bethlehem celebrates Christmas tree lighting Photo by Ahmed Mazhar- WAFA

Dec 11 2012 – Bethlehem celebrates Christmas tree lighting Photo by Ahmed Mazhar- WAFA

Dec 11 2012 – Bethlehem celebrates Christmas tree lighting Photo by Ahmed Mazhar- WAFA

Dec 11, 2012 Wafa – Beit Sahour preparing for Christmas

Dec 11, 2012 Wafa – Beit Sahour preparing for Christmas

Dec 11, 2012 Wafa – Beit Sahour preparing for Christmas

Dec 11, 2012 Wafa – Beit Sahour preparing for Christmas

Dec 11, 2012 Wafa – Beit Sahour preparing for Christmas

Dec 12 2012 Ramallah – Christmas tree lighting Photo by Mohamed Farrag/WAFA

Dec 12 2012 Ramallah – Christmas tree lighting Photo by Mohamed Farrag/WAFA

Dec 12 2012 Ramallah – Christmas tree lighting Photo by Mohamed Farrag/WAFA

Dec 12 2012 Ramallah – Christmas tree lighting Photo by Mohamed Farrag/WAFA

Dec 12 2012 Ramallah – Christmas tree lighting Photo by Mohamed Farrag/WAFA

Dec 12 2012 Ramallah – Christmas tree lighting Photo by Mohamed Farrag/WAFA

Dec 12 2012 Ramallah – Christmas tree lighting Photo by Mohamed Farrag/WAFA

Dec 12 2012 Ramallah – Christmas tree lighting Photo by Mohamed Farrag/WAFA

Dec 14 2012 – Bethlehem – The final touches to decorate the Christmas tree in Bethlehem Photo by Ahmed Mazhar – WAFA

Dec 14 2012 – Bethlehem – The final touches to decorate the Christmas tree in Bethlehem Photo by Ahmed Mazhar – WAFA

Dec 14 2012 – Bethlehem – The final touches to decorate the Christmas tree in Bethlehem Photo by Ahmed Mazhar – WAFA

Dec 14 2012 – Bethlehem – The final touches to decorate the Christmas tree in Bethlehem Photo by Ahmed Mazhar – WAFA

Dec 14 2012 – Bethlehem – The final touches to decorate the Christmas tree in Bethlehem Photo by Ahmed Mazhar – WAFA

Jerusalem – Project to preserve Palestinian cultural heritage in the Gethsemane Church Photo by Afif Emera – WAFA

Jerusalem – Project to preserve Palestinian cultural heritage in the Gethsemane Church Photo by Afif Emera – WAFA

Jerusalem – Project to preserve Palestinian cultural heritage in the Gethsemane Church Photo by Afif Emera – WAFA

Jerusalem – Project to preserve Palestinian cultural heritage in the Gethsemane Church Photo by Afif Emera – WAFA

Jerusalem – Project to preserve Palestinian cultural heritage in the Gethsemane Church Photo by Afif Emera – WAFA

Jerusalem – Project to preserve Palestinian cultural heritage in the Gethsemane Church Photo by Afif Emera – WAFA

Jerusalem – Project to preserve Palestinian cultural heritage in the Gethsemane Church Photo by Afif Emera – WAFA

Jerusalem – Project to preserve Palestinian cultural heritage in the Gethsemane Church Photo by Afif Emera – WAFA

Christmas in Palestine 2012 – Click to see the full album (Photo by Fadi Arouri)

Dec 14 2012 – Bethlehem – Bethlehem Municipality crews continue their work in decorating the Christmas tree in Manger Square Photo by Ahmed Mazhar / WAFA

Dec 14 2012 – Bethlehem – Bethlehem Municipality crews continue their work in decorating the Christmas tree in Manger Square Photo by Ahmed Mazhar / WAFA

Dec 14 2012 – Bethlehem – Bethlehem Municipality crews continue their work in decorating the Christmas tree in Manger Square Photo by Ahmed Mazhar / WAFA

Dec 14 2012 – Bethlehem – Bethlehem Municipality crews continue their work in decorating the Christmas tree in Manger Square Photo by Ahmed Mazhar / WAFA

Dec 14 2012 – Bethlehem – Bethlehem Municipality crews continue their work in decorating the Christmas tree in Manger Square Photo by Ahmed Mazhar / WAFA

Dec 15 2012 – Nablus – Christian community light the Christmas tree in preparation for Christmas celebrations Photo by Ayman Nubana – WAFA

Dec 15 2012 – Nablus – Christian community light the Christmas tree in preparation for Christmas celebrations Photo by Ayman Nubana – WAFA

Dec 15 2012 – Nablus – Christian community light the Christmas tree in preparation for Christmas celebrations Photo by Ayman Nubana – WAFA

Dec 15 2012 – Nablus – Christian community light the Christmas tree in preparation for Christmas celebrations Photo by Ayman Nubana – WAFA

Dec 15 2012 – Nablus – Christian community light the Christmas tree in preparation for Christmas celebrations Photo by Ayman Nubana – WAFA

Dec 15 2012 – Nablus – Christian community light the Christmas tree in preparation for Christmas celebrations Photo by Ayman Nubana – WAFA

Dec 15 2012 – Nablus – Christian community light the Christmas tree in preparation for Christmas celebrations Photo by Ayman Nubana – WAFA

Bethlehem – Christmas tree lighting celebration in Manger Square Photo by Ahmed Mazhar – WAFA

Bethlehem – Christmas tree lighting celebration in Manger Square Photo by Ahmed Mazhar – WAFA

Bethlehem – Christmas tree lighting celebration in Manger Square Photo by Ahmed Mazhar – WAFA

Bethlehem – Christmas tree lighting celebration in Manger Square Photo by Ahmed Mazhar – WAFA

Bethlehem – Christmas tree lighting celebration in Manger Square Photo by Ahmed Mazhar – WAFA

Bethlehem – Christmas tree lighting celebration in Manger Square Photo by Ahmed Mazhar – WAFA

Bethlehem – Christmas tree lighting celebration in Manger Square Photo by Ahmed Mazhar – WAFA

Bethlehem – Christmas tree lighting celebration in Manger Square Photo by Ahmed Mazhar – WAFA

Bethlehem – Christmas tree lighting celebration in Manger Square Photo by Ahmed Mazhar – WAFA

Bethlehem – Christmas tree lighting celebration in Manger Square Photo by Ahmed Mazhar – WAFA

Bethlehem – Christmas tree lighting celebration in Manger Square Photo by Ahmed Mazhar – WAFA

Bethlehem – Christmas tree lighting celebration in Manger Square Photo by Ahmed Mazhar – WAFA

Bethlehem – Christmas tree lighting celebration in Manger Square Photo by Ahmed Mazhar – WAFA

People watch fireworks explode after the lighting of the Christmas tree outside the Church of Nativity in the West Bank town of Bethlehem December 15, 2012. REUTERS/Ammar Awad

A man holds a child in front of a Christmas tree that was lit during a ceremony outside the Church of Nativity in the West Bank town of Bethlehem December 15, 2012. REUTERS/Ammar Awad

Preparations for Christmas in Gaza – Dec 16, 2012 Photo by Majdi Fathi

Preparations for Christmas in Gaza – Dec 16, 2012 Photo by Majdi Fathi

Preparations for Christmas in Gaza – Dec 16, 2012 Photo by Majdi Fathi

Preparations for Christmas in Gaza – Dec 16, 2012 Photo by Majdi Fathi

Preparations for Christmas in Gaza – Dec 16, 2012 Photo by Majdi Fathi

Preparations for Christmas in Gaza – Dec 16, 2012 Photo by Majdi Fathi

Preparations for Christmas in Gaza – Dec 16, 2012 Photo by Majdi Fathi

Preparations for Christmas in Gaza – Dec 16, 2012 Photo by Majdi Fathi

Preparations for Christmas in Gaza – Dec 16, 2012 Photo by Majdi Fathi

Preparations for Christmas in Gaza – Dec 16, 2012 Photo by Majdi Fathi

Preparations for Christmas in Gaza – Dec 16, 2012 Photo by Majdi Fathi

Preparations for Christmas in Gaza – Dec 16, 2012 Photo by Majdi Fathi

Preparations for Christmas in Gaza – Dec 16, 2012 Photo by Majdi Fathi

Preparations for Christmas in Gaza – Dec 16, 2012 Photo by Majdi Fathi

Preparations for Christmas in Gaza – Dec 16, 2012 Photo by Majdi Fathi

Festivities in advance of Christmas in Jerusalem – Dec 16, 2012 Photo by WAFA

Festivities in advance of Christmas in Jerusalem – Dec 16, 2012 Photo by WAFA

Festivities in advance of Christmas in Jerusalem – Dec 16, 2012 Photo by WAFA

Festivities in advance of Christmas in Jerusalem – Dec 16, 2012 Photo by WAFA

Festivities in advance of Christmas in Jerusalem – Dec 16, 2012 Photo by WAFA

Festivities in advance of Christmas in Jerusalem – Dec 16, 2012 Photo by WAFA

Festivities in advance of Christmas in Jerusalem – Dec 16, 2012 Photo by WAFA

Festivities in advance of Christmas in Jerusalem – Dec 16, 2012 Photo by WAFA

Dec 16 2012 Bethlehem – Photo by Xinhua

Dec 16 2012 Bethlehem – Photo by Xinhua

Dec 16 2012 Bethlehem – Photo by Xinhua

Dec 18 2012 – Jerusalem – Events and atmosphere of Christmas in the Old City of Jerusalem Photo by Afif Emera – WAFA

Dec 16 2012 Bethlehem – Photo by Xinhua

Dec 18 2012 – Jerusalem – Events and atmosphere of Christmas in the Old City of Jerusalem Photo by Afif Emera – WAFA

Dec 18 2012 – Jerusalem – Events and atmosphere of Christmas in the Old City of Jerusalem Photo by Afif Emera – WAFA

Dec 18 2012 – Jerusalem – Events and atmosphere of Christmas in the Old City of Jerusalem Photo by Afif Emera – WAFA

Dec 18 2012 – Jerusalem – Events and atmosphere of Christmas in the Old City of Jerusalem Photo by Afif Emera – WAFA

Dec 18 2012 – Jerusalem – Events and atmosphere of Christmas in the Old City of Jerusalem Photo by Afif Emera – WAFA

Dec 18 2012 – Jerusalem – Events and atmosphere of Christmas in the Old City of Jerusalem Photo by Afif Emera – WAFA

Dec 18 2012 – Jerusalem – Events and atmosphere of Christmas in the Old City of Jerusalem Photo by Afif Emera – WAFA

Dec 19 2012 – Carvers create religious figures in olive wood for Christmas – Bethlehem – Photo by Ahmed Mazhar / WAFA

Dec 19 2012 – Carvers create religious figures in olive wood for Christmas – Bethlehem – Photo by Ahmed Mazhar / WAFA

Dec 19 2012 – Carvers create religious figures in olive wood for Christmas – Bethlehem – Photo by Ahmed Mazhar / WAFA

Dec 19 2012 – Carvers create religious figures in olive wood for Christmas – Bethlehem – Photo by Ahmed Mazhar / WAFA

Dec 19 2012 – Carvers create religious figures in olive wood for Christmas – Bethlehem – Photo by Ahmed Mazhar / WAFA

Dec 19 2012 – Carvers create religious figures in olive wood for Christmas – Bethlehem – Photo by Ahmed Mazhar / WAFA

Dec 19 2012 – Carvers create religious figures in olive wood for Christmas – Bethlehem – Photo by Ahmed Mazhar / WAFA

Dec 19 2012 – Carvers create religious figures in olive wood for Christmas – Bethlehem – Photo by Ahmed Mazhar / WAFA

Dec 19 2012 – Carvers create religious figures in olive wood for Christmas – Bethlehem – Photo by Ahmed Mazhar / WAFA

Dec 19 2012 – Carvers create religious figures in olive wood for Christmas – Bethlehem – Photo by Ahmed Mazhar / WAFA

Dec 19 2012 – Carvers create religious figures in olive wood for Christmas – Bethlehem – Photo by Ahmed Mazhar / WAFA

Dec 20 2012 Christmas in Beit Sahour Photo by WAFA

Dec 20 2012 Christmas in Beit Sahour Photo by WAFA

Dec 20 2012 Christmas in Beit Sahour Photo by WAFA

Dec 20 2012 Christmas in Beit Sahour Photo by WAFA

Dec 20 2012 Christmas in Beit Sahour Photo by WAFA

Dec 20 2012 Christmas in Beit Sahour Photo by WAFA

Dec 20 2012 Christmas in Beit Sahour Photo by WAFA

Dec 20 2012 Christmas in Beit Sahour Photo by WAFA

Dec 20 2012 Christmas preparations in Bethlehem By WAFA

Dec 20 2012 Christmas preparations in Bethlehem By WAFA

Dec 20 2012 Christmas preparations in Bethlehem By WAFA

Dec 20 2012 Christmas preparations in Bethlehem By WAFA

Dec 20 2012 Christmas preparations in Bethlehem By WAFA

Dec 21 2012 Ramallah at Night

Dec 21 2012 Jerusalem at Night

Dec 21 2012 Jerusalem at Night

A Palestinian wood carver works on a figurine of the baby Jesus in an olive wood factory in the West Bank town of Bethlehem, ahead of Christmas, Friday, Dec. 21, 2012.

A Palestinian wood carver works on a figurine of the baby Jesus in an olive wood factory in the West Bank town of Bethlehem, ahead of Christmas, Friday, Dec. 21, 2012.

A Palestinian carpenter carves wooden statues of the Virgin Mary and Jesus in a workshop, ahead of Christmas in the West Bank town of Bethlehem December 21, 2012. REUTERS/Ammar Awad

A Palestinian carpenter carves wooden statues of the Virgin Mary and Jesus in a workshop, ahead of Christmas in the West Bank town of Bethlehem December 21, 2012. REUTERS/Ammar Awad

A Palestinian carpenter carves wooden statues of the Virgin Mary and Jesus in a workshop, ahead of Christmas in the West Bank town of Bethlehem December 21, 2012. REUTERS/Ammar Awad

A Palestinian carpenter carves wooden statues of the Virgin Mary and Jesus in a workshop, ahead of Christmas in the West Bank town of Bethlehem December 21, 2012. REUTERS/Ammar Awad

Dec 22 2012 Christmas Ramallah – Photo by WAFA

Dec 22 2012 Christmas Ramallah – Photo by WAFA

Dec 22 2012 Christmas Ramallah – Photo by WAFA

Dec 22 2012 Christmas Ramallah – Photo by WAFA

People walk inside the Church of the Nativity, the site revered as the birthplace of Jesus, ahead of Christmas in the West Bank town of Bethlehem December 22, 2012. REUTERS/Ammar Awad

Worshippers pray in the Church of the Nativity, the site revered as the birthplace of Jesus, ahead of Christmas in the West Bank town of Bethlehem December 21, 2012. REUTERS/Ammar Awad

A worshipper prays in the Church of the Nativity, the site revered as the birthplace of Jesus, ahead of Christmas in the West Bank town of Bethlehem December 21, 2012. REUTERS/Ammar Awad

A Greek Orthodox priest walks inside the Church of the Nativity, the site revered as the birthplace of Jesus, ahead of Christmas in the West Bank town of Bethlehem December 22, 2012. REUTERS/Ammar

A worshipper holds a candle in the Church of the Nativity, the site revered as the birthplace of Jesus, ahead of Christmas in the West Bank town of Bethlehem December 21, 2012. REUTERS/Ammar Awad

A Palestinian worshipper lights a candle in the Church of the Nativity in the West Bank town of Bethlehem December 16, 2012. REUTERS/Ammar Awad

A worshipper lights a candle in the Church of the Nativity in the West Bank town of Bethlehem December 20, 2012. REUTERS/Mohamad Torokman

Nuns walk past worshippers in the Church of the Nativity in the West Bank town of Bethlehem December 16, 2012. REUTERS/Ammar Awad

A man cleans a chandelier inside the Church of the Nativity, the site revered as the birthplace of Jesus, ahead of Christmas in the West Bank town of Bethlehem December 22, 2012. REUTERS/Ammar Awad .

A man sits inside the Church of the Nativity, the site revered as the birthplace of Jesus, ahead of Christmas in the West Bank town of Bethlehem December 22, 2012. REUTERS/Ammar Awad

Bethlehem (-), 22/12/2012.- A pilgrim on her knees prays in the central nave of the Church of the Nativity, the traditionally accepted place where the Virgin Mary gave birth to Jesus Christ, during a short service and prayer in the West Bank town of Bethlehem, as tourists and pilgrims flock to the ancient church in the lead up to Christmas festivities, 22 December 2012. EFE/EPA/ABED HASHLAMOUN

A man sits inside the Church of the Nativity, the site revered as the birthplace of Jesus, ahead of Christmas in the West Bank town of Bethlehem December 22, 2012. REUTERS/Ammar Awad

Bethlehem (-), 22/12/2012.- A pilgrim holds a candle and song text book in the ‘Grotto’, or cave, in the Church of the Nativity, the traditionally accepted place where the Virgin Mary gave birth to Jesus Christ, during a short service and prayer in the West Bank town of Bethlehem, as tourists and pilgrims flock to the ancient church in the lead up to Christmas festivities, 22 December 2012. EFE/EPA/ABED HASHLAMOUN

Bethlehem (-), 22/12/2012.- Christian nuns in the ‘Grotto’, or cave, in the Church of the Nativity, the traditionally accepted place where the Virgin Mary gave birth to Jesus Christ, during a short service and prayer in the West Bank town of Bethlehem, as tourists and pilgrims flock to the ancient church in the lead up to Christmas festivities, 22 December 2012. EFE/EPA/ABED HASHLAMOUN

Bethlehem (-), 22/12/2012.- Pilgrims at prayer in the ‘Grotto’, or cave, in the Church of the Nativity, the traditionally accepted place where the Virgin Mary gave birth to Jesus Christ, during a short service and prayer in the West Bank town of Bethlehem, as tourists and pilgrims flock to the ancient church in the lead up to Christmas festivities, 22 December 2012. EFE/EPA/ABED HASHLAMOUN

ISR01. Bethlehem (-), 22/12/2012.- A pilgrim (C) reads in a book in the Church of the Nativity, the traditionally accepted place where the Virgin Mary gave birth to Jesus Christ, during a short service and prayer in the West Bank town of Bethlehem, as tourists and pilgrims flock to the ancient church in the lead up to Christmas festivities, 22 December 2012. EFE/EPA/ABED HASHLAMOUN

ethlehem (—), 23/12/2012.- A pilgrim kneels in the Church of the Nativity, traditionally accepted as the birthplace of Jesus Christ, in the West Bank town of Bethlehem, 23 December 2012. The church is one of the oldest in the world, and pilgrims, tourists and Christian faithful are flocking to the town where Jesus was born in the lead up to the Christmas festivities. EFE/EPA/ABED AL HASHLAMOUN

Bethlehem (-), 23/12/2012.- A Palestinian dance troupe performs in Manger Square before the large decorated Christmas tree and a Nativity scene set up next to the Church of the Nativity (not seen) where Christians believe the Virgin Mary gave birth to Jesus Christ, in the West Bank town of Bethlehem, 23 December 2012. EFE/EPA/JIM HOLLANDER

Bethlehem (-), 23/12/2012.- A Palestinian dance troup performs in Manger Square before the large decorated Christmas tree set up next to the Church of the Nativity (not seen) where Christians believe the Virgin Mary gave birth to Jesus Christ, in the West Bank town of Bethlehem, 23 December 2012. EFE/EPA/JIM HOLLANDER

Bethlehem (—), 23/12/2012.- A Christian clergy finishes cleaning the ‘Grotto,’ or cave, where Christians believe the Virgin Mary gave birth to Jesus Christ, in the Church of the Nativity, in the West Bank town of Bethlehem, 23 December 2012. The church is one of the oldest in the world, and pilgrims, tourists and Christian faithful are flocking to the town where Jesus was born in the lead up to the Christmas festivities. EFE/EPA/JIM HOLLANDER

ethlehem (-), 23/12/2012.- A Christian boy places a wooden cross into the 14-pointed silver star in the ‘Grotto,’ or cave, where Christians believe the Virgin Mary gave birth to Jesus Christ, in the Church of the Nativity, in the West Bank town of Bethlehem, 23 December 2012. EFE/EPA/JIM HOLLANDER

eople walk through the Church of Nativity, the site revered by Christians as Jesus’ birthplace, ahead of Christmas in the West Bank town of Bethlehem December 23, 2012. REUTERS/Ammar Awad

Bethlehem (-), 23/12/2012.- A Christian visitor holds an icon-style image amid the large marble columns in the central nave of the Church of the Nativity, where Christians believe the Virgin Mary gave birth to Jesus Christ, in the West Bank town of Bethlehem, 23 December 2012. EFE/EPA/ABED HASHLAMOUN

A visitor photographs herself inside the Church of Nativity, the site revered by Christians as Jesus’ birthplace, ahead of Christmas in the West Bank town of Bethlehem December 23, 2012. REUTERS/Ammar Awad

A nun walks through the Church of Nativity, the site revered by Christians as Jesus’ birthplace, ahead of Christmas in the West Bank town of Bethlehem December 23, 2012. REUTERS/Ammar Awad

A visitor stands inside the Church of Nativity, the site revered by Christians as Jesus’ birthplace, ahead of Christmas in the West Bank town of Bethlehem December 23, 2012. REUTERS/Ammar Awad (WEST BANK – Tags: RELIGION) — at A visitor stands inside the Church of Nativity, the site revered by Christians as Jesus’ birthplace, ahead of Christmas in the West Bank town of Bethlehem December 23, 2012. REUTERS/Ammar Awad

Mideast Israel Palestinians Christian worshipers visit the Church of Nativity, traditionally believed by Christians to be the birthplace of Jesus Christ, ahead of Christmas, in the West Bank town of Bethlehem, Sunday, Dec. 23, 2012. (AP Photo/Nasser Shiyoukhi) AP

JER03. Bethlehem (-), 23/12/2012.- A Christian pilgrim prays on her knees along ancient oil paintings of Mary with the Baby Jesus in the ‘Grotto,’ or cave, where Christians believe the Virgin Mary gave birth to Jesus Christ, in the Church of the Nativity, in the West Bank town of Bethlehem, 23 December 2012. EFE/EPA/JIM HOLLANDER

Bethlehem (-), 23/12/2012.- Christian pilgrims trying to get their arms round the large marble columns in the central nave of the Church of the Nativity, where Christians believe the Virgin mary gave birth to Jesus Christ, in the West Bank town of Bethlehem, 23 December 2012. EFE/EPA/JIM HOLLANDER Like · · Share

Bethlehem (-), 23/12/2012.- A Christian visitor walking amid the large marble columns in the central nave of the Church of the Nativity, where Christians believe the Virgin Mary gave birth to Jesus Christ, in the West Bank town of Bethlehem, 23 December 2012. EFE/EPA/ABED HASHLAMOUN

ethlehem (—), 23/12/2012.- A pilgrim prays in the Church of the Nativity, traditionally accepted as the birthplace of Jesus Christ, in the West Bank town of Bethlehem, 23 December 2012. The church is one of the oldest in the world, and pilgrims, tourists and Christian faithful are flocking to the town where Jesus was born in the lead up to the Christmas festivities. EFE/EPA/ABED AL HASHLAMOUN

Bethlehem (-), 23/12/2012.- Nuns passing the large marble columns in the central nave of the Church of the Nativity, where Christians believe the Virgin Mary gave birth to Jesus Christ, in the West Bank town of Bethlehem, 23 December 2012. EFE/EPA/ABED HASHLAMOUN

People walk inside the Church of Nativity, traditionally believed by Christians to be the birthplace of Jesus Christ, ahead of Christmas, in the West Bank town of Bethlehem, Sunday, Dec. 23, 2012. (AP Photo/Nasser Shiyoukhi) AP

A Palestinian boy reacts to a man dressed as Santa Claus in the West Bank town of Bethlehem ahead of Christmas December 23, 2012. REUTERS/Ammar Awad

Bethlehem (-), 23/12/2012.- A Palestinian policeman walks through a shaft of light inside the Church of the Nativity, where Christians believe the Virgin Mary gave birth to Jesus Christ, in the West Bank town of Bethlehem, 23 December 2012. The church is one of the oldest in the world, and pilgrims, tourists and Christian faithful are flocking to the town where Jesus was born in the lead up to the Christmas festivities. EFE/EPA/JIM HOLLANDER

A Palestinian dressed as Santa Claus rings a bell in the West Bank town of Bethlehem ahead of Christmas December 23, 2012. REUTERS/Ammar Awad

Bethlehem (-), 23/12/2012.- View of the Christmas tree in Manger Square with the Church of the Nativity (behind, R), where Christians believe the Virgin Mary gave birth to Jesus Christ, in the West Bank town of Bethlehem, 23 December 2012. EFE/EPA/ABED HASHLAMOUN

Bethlehem (-), 23/12/2012.- View of the Christmas tree in Manger Square with the Church of the Nativity (behind, R), where Christians believe the Virgin Mary gave birth to Jesus Christ, in the West Bank town of Bethlehem, 23 December 2012. EFE/EPA/ABED HASHLAMOUN

Bethlehem (-), 23/12/2012.- View of the Christmas tree in Manger Square with the Church of the Nativity (behind, R), where Christians believe the Virgin Mary gave birth to Jesus Christ, in the West Bank town of Bethlehem, 23 December 2012. EFE/EPA/ABED HASHLAMOUN

Bethlehem (-), 23/12/2012.- View of the Christmas tree in Manger Square with the Church of the Nativity (behind, R), where Christians believe the Virgin Mary gave birth to Jesus Christ, in the West Bank town of Bethlehem, 23 December 2012. EFE/EPA/ABED HASHLAMOUN

Dec 23 2012 Ramallah Christmas in Palestine Photo by WAFA

Dec 23 2012 Ramallah Christmas in Palestine Photo by WAFA

Dec 23 2012 Ramallah Christmas in Palestine Photo by WAFA

Dec 23 2012 Ramallah Christmas in Palestine Photo by WAFA

A Palestinian dressed as Santa Claus rides a cart pulled by a donkey in the West Bank city of Ramallah ahead of Christmas December 23, 2012. REUTERS/Mohamad Torokman

A Palestinian dressed as Santa Claus rides a cart pulled by a donkey in the West Bank city of Ramallah ahead of Christmas December 23, 2012. REUTERS/Mohamad Torokman

A Palestinian women dressed in traditional costume watches a Christmas parade outside the Church of Nativity in the West Bank town of Bethlehem December 24, 2012. REUTERS/Darren Whiteside

A Palestinian women dressed in traditional costume watches a Christmas parade outside the Church of Nativity in the West Bank town of Bethlehem December 24, 2012. REUTERS/Darren Whiteside

Dec 24 2012 Bethlehem celebrations of Christmas Photo by Eyad Jadallah – WAFA

Dec 24 2012 Bethlehem celebrations of Christmas Photo by Eyad Jadallah – WAFA

Dec 24 2012 Bethlehem celebrations of Christmas Photo by Eyad Jadallah – WAFA

Dec 24 2012 Bethlehem celebrations of Christmas Photo by Eyad Jadallah – WAFA

Dec 24 2012 Bethlehem celebrations of Christmas Photo by Eyad Jadallah – WAFA

Dec 24 2012 Bethlehem celebrations of Christmas Photo by Eyad Jadallah – WAFA

Nigerian pilgrims pray inside the Grotto in the Church of the Nativity, traditionally believed to be the birthplace of Jesus Christ, as preparations for Christmas celebrations in the West Bank biblical town of Bethlehem on Dec. 24, 2012. (Xinhua/Fadi Arouri)

Dec 24 2012 Bethlehem celebrations of Christmas Photo by Eyad Jadallah – WAFA

Dec 24 2012 Bethlehem celebrations of Christmas Photo by Eyad Jadallah – WAFA

Dec 24 2012 Bethlehem celebrations of Christmas Photo by Eyad Jadallah – WAFA

Dec 24 2012 Bethlehem celebrations of Christmas Photo by Eyad Jadallah – WAFA

Dec 24 2012 Bethlehem celebrations of Christmas Photo by Eyad Jadallah – WAFA

Dec 24 2012 Bethlehem celebrations of Christmas Photo by Eyad Jadallah – WAFA

Dec 24 2012 Christmas in Palestine Bethlehem

Dec 24 2012, Latin Patriarch Fouad Twal going to Bethlehem as Christmas celebrations begin Photo by Afif Emera – WAFA

Dec 24 2012, Latin Patriarch Fouad Twal going to Bethlehem as Christmas celebrations begin Photo by Afif Emera – WAFA

Latin Patriarch Fuad Twal passing the Israeli checkpoint. religion under siege on his way to Bethlehem, Dec 24, 2012

Dec 24 2012, Latin Patriarch Fouad Twal going to Bethlehem as Christmas celebrations begin Photo by Afif Emera – WAFA

Dec 24 2012, Latin Patriarch Fouad Twal going to Bethlehem as Christmas celebrations begin Photo by Afif Emera – WAFA

Dec 24 2012, Latin Patriarch Fouad Twal going to Bethlehem as Christmas celebrations begin Photo by Afif Emera – WAFA

Dec 24 2012, Latin Patriarch Fouad Twal going to Bethlehem as Christmas celebrations begin Photo by Afif Emera – WAFA

A girl wearing traditional clothes smiles at the Church of the Nativity, traditionally believed to be the birthplace of Jesus Christ, as she attends the Christmas celebrations in the West Bank biblical town of Bethlehem on Dec. 24, 2012. (Xinhua/Fadi Arouri)

Dec 24 2012 – Bethlehem – Christmas atmosphere Photo by Tamer PANA

Dec 24, 2012 Bethlehem – Scouts enter Manger Square in preparation for the reception of the Patriarch to celebrate Christmas Photo by Eyad Jadallah – WAFA

Dec 24, 2012 Bethlehem – Scouts enter Manger Square in preparation for the reception of the Patriarch to celebrate Christmas Photo by Eyad Jadallah – WAFA

Dec 24 2012 Christmas in Palestine Bethlehem – Photo by Fadi Arouri

Dec 24, 2012 Bethlehem – Scouts enter Manger Square in preparation for the reception of the Patriarch to celebrate Christmas Photo by Eyad Jadallah – WAFA

A man performs at the Church of the Nativity, traditionally believed to be the birthplace of Jesus Christ, as he attends the Christmas celebrations in the West Bank biblical town of Bethlehem on Dec. 24, 2012. (Xinhua/Fadi Arouri)

Dec 24, 2012 Bethlehem – Scouts enter Manger Square in preparation for the reception of the Patriarch to celebrate Christmas Photo by Eyad Jadallah – WAFA

Dec 24, 2012 Bethlehem – Scouts enter Manger Square in preparation for the reception of the Patriarch to celebrate Christmas Photo by Eyad Jadallah – WAFA

Dec 24, 2012 Bethlehem – Scouts enter Manger Square in preparation for the reception of the Patriarch to celebrate Christmas Photo by Eyad Jadallah – WAFA

Dec 24 2012 – Bethlehem – Christmas and Scouts in Manger Square in Bethlehem Photo by Eyad Jadallah

Dec 24 2012 – Bethlehem – Christmas and Scouts in Manger Square in Bethlehem Photo by Eyad Jadallah

Dec 24 2012 – Bethlehem – Christmas and Scouts in Manger Square in Bethlehem Photo by Eyad Jadallah

Dec 24 2012 – Bethlehem – Christmas and Scouts in Manger Square in Bethlehem Photo by Eyad Jadallah

Dec 24 2012 Christmas in Palestine Bethlehem – Photo by Fadi Arouri

Dec 24 2012 Christmas in Palestine Bethlehem

Dec 24 2012 Christmas in Palestine Bethlehem

Dec 24 2012 Christmas in Palestine Bethlehem

A worshiper lights a candle in the Church of the Nativity, traditionally believed to be the birthplace of Jesus Christ, as she attends the Christmas celebrations in the West Bank biblical town of Bethlehem on Dec. 24, 2012. (Xinhua/Fadi Arouri)

A worshiper and his son touchs a column inside the Church of the Nativity, traditionally believed to be the birthplace of Jesus Christ, as they attend the Christmas celebrations in the West Bank biblical town of Bethlehem on Dec. 24, 2012. (Xinhua/Fadi Arouri)

Dec 24 2012 – Bethlehem – Christmas atmosphere Photo by Tamer PANA

A worshiper lights a candle in the Church of the Nativity, traditionally believed to be the birthplace of Jesus Christ, as she attends the Christmas celebrations in the West Bank biblical town of Bethlehem on Dec. 24, 2012. (Xinhua/Fadi Arouri)

Dec 24 2012 Christmas in Palestine Bethlehem

A picture shows the Grotto where Christians believe the Virgin Mary gave birth to Jesus Christ in the Church of the Nativity, in the West Bank biblical town of Bethlehem, the traditional birthplace of Jesus as preparations for Christmas celebrations get underway on December 23, 2012. AFP PHOTO/MUSA AL SHAER

Dec 24 2012 Bethlehem – Square Nativity on Christmas Eve Photo by WAFA

Dec 24 2012 – Bethlehem – Christmas atmosphere Photo by Tamer PANA

Dec 24 2012 Bethlehem – Square Nativity on Christmas Eve Photo by WAFA

Dec 24 2012 – Bethlehem – Christmas and Scouts in Manger Square in Bethlehem Photo by Eyad Jadallah

Dec 24 2012 – Bethlehem – Christmas and Scouts in Manger Square in Bethlehem Photo by Eyad Jadallah

Dec 24 2012 – Bethlehem – Christmas and Scouts in Manger Square in Bethlehem Photo by Eyad Jadallah

Dec 24 2012 President Mahmoud Abbas during his participation in a Greek Orthodox ceremony Photo by Thaer Ghanaim

Dec 24 2012 – Bethlehem – Patriarch Fouad Twal at Mass at the Church of the Nativity Photo by Eyad Jadallah

Dec 24 2012 – Bethlehem – Patriarch Fouad Twal at Mass at the Church of the Nativity Photo by Eyad Jadallah

Dec 24 2012 – Bethlehem – Patriarch Fouad Twal at Mass at the Church of the Nativity Photo by Eyad Jadallah

Dec 24 2012 – Bethlehem – Patriarch Fouad Twal at Mass at the Church of the Nativity Photo by Eyad Jadallah

Dec 24 2012 Bethlehem – Square Nativity on Christmas Eve Photo by WAFA

Dec 24 2012 Bethlehem – Square Nativity on Christmas Eve Photo by WAFA

Dec 24 2012 Bethlehem – Square Nativity on Christmas Eve Photo by WAFA

Dec 24 2012 Bethlehem – Square Nativity on Christmas Eve Photo by WAFA

Dec 24 2012 Bethlehem – Square Nativity on Christmas Eve Photo by WAFA

Dec 24 2012 Bethlehem – Square Nativity on Christmas Eve Photo by WAFA

Dec 24 2012 Bethlehem – Square Nativity on Christmas Eve Photo by WAFA

Dec 24 2012 Bethlehem – Square Nativity on Christmas Eve Photo by WAFA

Dec 24 2012 Bethlehem – Square Nativity on Christmas Eve Photo by WAFA

Clergymen take part in the Christmas celebrations outside the Church of the Nativity in West Bank town of Bethlehem on Dec. 24, 2012. (Xinhua/Fadi Arouri)

Clergymen take part in the Christmas celebrations outside the Church of the Nativity in West Bank town of Bethlehem on Dec. 24, 2012. (Xinhua/Fadi Arouri)

Clergymen take part in the Christmas celebrations outside the Church of the Nativity in West Bank town of Bethlehem on Dec. 24, 2012. (Xinhua/Fadi Arouri)

Clergymen take part in the Christmas celebrations outside the Church of the Nativity in West Bank town of Bethlehem on Dec. 24, 2012. (Xinhua/Fadi Arouri)

Latin Patriarch of the Holy Land Fuad Twal, head of the Roman Catholic Church in the Palestinian territories, blesses the Church of the Nativity upon his arrival to attend the Christmas celebrations in West Bank town of Bethlehem on Dec. 24, 2012. (Xinhua/Fadi Arouri)

Click to see the full album: Christmas in Palestine 2012

Latin Patriarch of the Holy Land Fuad Twal, head of the Roman Catholic Church in the Palestinian territories, blesses the Church of the Nativity upon his arrival to attend the Christmas celebrations in West Bank town of Bethlehem on Dec. 24, 2012. (Xinhua/Fadi Arouri)

Dec 24 2012 Nigerian pilgrims sit inside the Church of Nativity in Bethlehem 2

Dec 24 2012 Nigerian pilgrims sit inside the Church of Nativity in Bethlehem

Dec 24 2012 Christian worshippers from Nigeria pray in the Grotto of the Church of Nativity

Dec 24 2012 Christian boys from Nigeria walk outside the Church of Nativity

Dec 24 2012 A Christian worshipper from Nigeria and her son wait to pray at the Church of Nativity

Dec 24 2012 A Nigerian pilgrim carries a child on her back as she visits Church of Nativity in Bethlehem

Dec 24 2012 The Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem Twal waves upon his arrival to Bethlehem after crossing an Israeli checkpoint

Dec 24 2012 The Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem Twal waves as he arrives for Christmas celebrations at Manger Square

Dec 24 2012 A member of the clergy holds a cross as he waits for the arrival of the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem

Dec 24 2012 Orthodox Christian priests wait for the arrival of the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem Twal at the

Nigerian pilgrims visit Church of Nativity in Bethlehem

Dec 25, 2012 Church of Nativity

Dec 25, 2012 Latin Patriarch Fuad Twal greetz President Abbas

Dec 25, 2012 The Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem Twal carries a statuette of baby Jesus in Bethlehem

The Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem Twal carries a statuette of baby Jesus in Bethlehem

Dec 25, 2012 The Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem Twal carries a statuette of baby Jesus in Bethlehem

Dec 25 2012 Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem Twal at the Church of St. Catherine in Bethlehem on Christmas day

Dec 25 2012 A nun prays during Catholic mass at the Church of St. Catherine in the West Bank town of Bethlehem on Christmas day

Dec 25 2012 Nuns pray during Catholic mass at the Church of St. Catherine in Bethlehem on Christmas day

Dec 25 2012 A nun wears a crucifix pendant during Catholic mass at the Church of St. Catherine in Bethlehem on Christmas day

Dec 25 2012 A worshipper holds rosary beads during Catholic mass at the Church of St. Catherine in Bethlehem on Christmas day

Dec 25 2012 A Palestinian girl receives communion from the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem Twal at the Church of St. Catherine in Bethlehem on Christmas day

More photography below the related news

• Special Topic | Zionist Crimes against Christianity
• Fact Sheet | Palestinian Christians in the Holy Land | by @TheIMEU
• Religion Under Siege | Dec 18, 2012 | Christmas in Gaza: Israeli Military to Allow “Some” Gaza Christians to Leave for Holiday – Antiwar.com
• Dec 19, 2012 | Holy Land Christmas – HuffPost Live
• Dec 19, 2012 | Israel lets 557 Christians out of Gaza for holidays – Ma’an News
• Dec 20, 2012 | New Israeli Herods and Palestinian Christians – Sabbah Report
• Dec 21, 2012 | Israel’s colonial strangling of Bethlehem – Ben White at Al Jazeera

In Pictures

Click on the pictures below to see the albums with beautiful photography

Click to see | Album Christianity in Palestine	Click to see | Album Christmas in Palestine 2011
Click to see | Album Orthodox Christmas in Palestine – Jan 2012	Click to see | Album “Easter in Palestine 2012”

More pictures in the Gallery – Images | الصور

VIDEO

Christmas 2012 in Palestine

PLO releases Bethlehem Christmas video

Dec 22, 2012 | Maan News Agency

BETHLEHEM (Ma’an) — The PLO’s negotiations affairs department and Palestinian Government Media Center released a video Saturday about the realities of Bethlehem ahead of Christmas.

The video, titled Justice is Possible and Hope is Justified, reflects the “current reality of Bethlehem, the birthplace of the Prince of Hope,” an emailed statement said.

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• Dec 24, 2012 | Israel Still Ban Christmas Trees in Nazareth ~ by Jonathan Cook
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