Source: The New York Times
In Gaza, where war has ravaged communities, a small but resilient group of Christians has continued to celebrate Christmas, defying the odds and remaining steadfast despite the intense challenges they face. For many, the ongoing conflict has left them questioning the future of Christianity in the region, which has had a presence for over 1,600 years. Some fear that, with so many fleeing the area, the community may not survive this crisis.
The Christian population of Gaza, which once numbered about 1,000, has dwindled as many have sought refuge outside the enclave, with significant numbers relocating to Egypt, Canada, and Australia. The war, triggered by Hamas' attacks in October 2023, has left families devastated, with many homes destroyed. “I love my homeland,” said Kamel Ayyad, a church official who fled Gaza, “but I won’t return until I understand the political and economic situation.” For those who stayed, life in Gaza has become a desperate attempt to protect their children and keep the faith alive.
Despite the ongoing violence and destruction, the churches in Gaza have provided a rare sanctuary. The Rev. Munther Isaac, a pastor from Bethlehem, expressed his concern, fearing that once the war ends, Christians may never feel safe enough to return to Gaza. “They just want to leave. They want to escape this hell,” he said.
Christmas celebrations in Gaza have been reduced to small, private gatherings in churches, a stark contrast to pre-war times when Christians marked the holiday with large public displays. Before Hamas took full control of Gaza in 2007, it was common to see Christmas trees in major squares and processions through the streets. Under Hamas rule, however, religious freedom has been severely limited, although Christians are allowed to worship in their churches. The holiday spirit, once visible across the streets, now remains confined to sacred spaces.
The war, particularly the October 7 attack by Hamas, has left the Christian community deeply shaken. That attack, which killed over 1,000 people and took hundreds hostage, prompted a large-scale Israeli military response. The ensuing airstrikes and ground invasion have claimed tens of thousands of lives and displaced nearly two million people, including many Christians.
For those remaining in Gaza, the churches have become makeshift refuges. As northern Gaza was evacuated, many Christians fled to the Holy Family Church and St. Porphyrius, hoping for protection. But even these sanctuaries have not been immune to the violence. In October, an Israeli airstrike targeted an area near St. Porphyrius, killing 18 people, including children. Later in December, two women were killed inside the Holy Family Church, allegedly by Israeli sniper fire, sparking international condemnation.
Despite the hardships, the Christian community in Gaza has not lost its spirit. They have come together to provide food, shelter, and support to one another in the midst of displacement. One of the few traditions still observed is the preparation of burbara, a wheat berry pudding that is usually shared with neighbors during Christmas. While this year’s dish did not meet the usual standards, it served as a symbol of the community’s resilience. “We wanted to show that we’re still here,” said George Anton, a Gazan Christian.
The future of Gaza’s Christian community remains uncertain. With the mass displacement caused by the war and the ongoing hardships, it is unclear how many will return, or if those who have left will ever feel safe enough to come back. Yet, for now, the churches continue to serve as a lifeline, providing a sense of community and faith in the face of overwhelming adversity.
This story draws from an article originally published in The New York Times by Aaron Boxerman.
