“Arise and Shine, O Bethlehem, for the Light of Peace Has Dawned Again.”

– Bethlehem Municipality

Dear Friends,

As we celebrate the Third Advent , Bethlehem is glowing once more. After years of heaviness, the city of Christmas is breathing again . Streets are filled with families, children run joyfully from one activity to another, and Christmas bazaars, concerts, parades, and tree lightings illuminate every corner of the city.

This year, even Dheisheh Refugee Camp in Bethlehem lit its own Christmas tree — a beautiful expression of living together, where Christians and Muslims share moments of hope, dignity, and joy .

These scenes remind us that Palestinians deserve a decent, happy, and peaceful life , especially our children, whose laughter carries a message stronger than any hardship.

But Bethlehem still needs your help.

While the city shines, many families in Bethlehem and the South Hebron Hills continue to face daily struggles — especially with food, heating, and basic needs.

As part of the Season of Giving campaign, launched on Thanksgiving and continuing through Giving Tuesday and the Advent season, Holy Land Trust is mobilizing support for:

Families in Umm al-Kheir , South Hebron Hills

100 vulnerable families in the Bethlehem area needing food coupons this Christmas

A Christmas Concert to Support 100 Families

To make this possible, we warmly invite you to join our special event:

“ rock & carol” – Christmas Night

with Suwan Musical Group

Friday, December 12 – 6:00 PM

Dar Annadwa – Bethlehem

Your presence will bring more than music — it brings food, dignity, and hope to families who need it most.

Our Third Advent Candle Lighting: Samira’s Light

This week, we lit the Advent candle with Samira, one of our previous food-coupon beneficiaries.

“I am thankful for the support we received… but today, my prayers are for everyone — especially the children in Gaza, suffering from the cold, the rain, and life in the camps.”

– Samira

Her words capture the heart of Advent — compassion that reaches beyond our homes and embraces those facing the hardest nights.

Let the Light of Bethlehem Shine Through Us

As the city lights its trees and welcomes visitors with warmth and color, let us ensure that every family — in Bethlehem and in the South Hebron Hills — feels the true spirit of Christmas.

Your generosity helps keep the light of peace alive.

When Bethlehem shines, it reminds us that hope is stronger than hardship. This season, your generosity becomes the light that families carry into the new year.

Elias Deis,

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Holy Land Trust

© 2025 Holy Land Trust