The Israel-Hamas war in Gaza has cast a somber mood over the Christmas holiday in Jordan. In the Christian-majority towns of Fuheis and Huson, the usual festive atmosphere is noticeably absent. The Jordan Council of Churches has announced that there will be no celebrations or congratulations for Christmas and New Year, with the focus instead on prayers at homes and churches. This decision is a show of solidarity with the Palestinians in Gaza and the occupied West Bank, who continue to suffer due to the Israeli aggression.
Majedah Suweis, a resident of Fuheis, describes how her town lacks any festive atmosphere, both internally and externally. While there may be prayers and some small festive elements within their homes, their hearts are with their brothers and sisters in Palestine. The absence of a Christmas tree at their home reflects their solidarity with the Palestinians.
Fuheis, located in Balqa governorate, is renowned for its vibrant Christmas celebrations. Typically, a large Christmas tree is illuminated at the town center, attracting many Jordanians, including Muslims, who come to enjoy the joyful festivities of Christmas and New Year’s Eve. However, this year, the streets of Fuheis remain empty of any Christmas celebrations.
Similarly, Huson, a town in the northern city of Irbid, has also refrained from hosting its traditional colorful celebrations of Christmas and New Year. George al-Wahsh from Huson explains that the war in Gaza and the immense suffering of Palestinians make it inappropriate to celebrate. The high civilian casualties, displacement, and widespread devastation caused by the conflict have deeply saddened Christians and people worldwide. It is simply not the time for celebration.
As a result, this year’s Christmas celebrations in Huson will be limited to homes, with people visiting each other to offer congratulations on the holy occasion. There will be no Christmas tree, church bells, or Santa Claus caravan. The focus will solely be on prayers for Gaza.
The decision by the Jordan Council of Churches to cancel public Christmas celebrations and instead emphasize prayers demonstrates the deep empathy and solidarity felt by the Christian community in Jordan towards the Palestinians. It is a poignant reminder of the suffering endured by those in Gaza and the occupied West Bank.
The absence of festive decorations and celebrations in Fuheis and Huson serves as a powerful symbol of support for the Palestinians. It sends a message that the Christmas spirit is not about materialistic festivities but rather about compassion, empathy, and standing in solidarity with those in need.
While the war in Gaza has dampened the holiday spirit in Jordan, it has also highlighted the resilience and strength of the Christian community. By prioritizing prayers and focusing on the plight of the Palestinians, they are embodying the true essence of Christmas.
In conclusion, the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza has had a profound impact on the Christmas celebrations in Jordan. The Christian-majority towns of Fuheis and Huson have chosen to forgo public festivities and instead focus on prayers for the Palestinians. This decision reflects their solidarity and empathy towards those suffering in Gaza and the occupied West Bank. By canceling public celebrations, the Christian community in Jordan sends a powerful message of support and compassion. This year, Christmas is a time for reflection, prayer, and standing together with those in need.