The northern city of Haifa is known for its peaceful coexistence between Jews, Christians and Muslims. Following months of relentless rocket fire by the Iranian-backed Lebanese terrorist militia Hezbollah, the Christian community in Haifa, numbering almost 17,000 people, is hoping the Christmas holiday will bring some peace and happiness.
While few in number, Haifa’s Christian community is diverse, consisting of five different churches including the Anglican, Catholic and Greek Orthodox.
Father Yousef Yakoub of the St. Lucas Maronite Church in Haifa, told The Times of Israel that Christmas “is very special, especially after the war. “Christmas means that God is not forsaking humanity,” he continued.
“We know the despair that comes from war and killing,” Yakoub said. “Now, when we speak about light, we know what darkness is.”
Since 1993, Haifa’s municipality has held an annual event, “Holiday of Holidays,” emphasizing the spiritual connection between Christianity, Judaism and Islam as represented through a Christmas tree, a Hanukkah candelabra, and a sickle moon and a star. […]
— Read More: allisrael.com
