There will neither be Christmas tree nor traditional celebrations at the birthplace of Lord Jesus Christ this year in solidarity with the thousands of victims in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank. In lieu of this, the focus at the Church of the Nativity and the Manger Square in Bethlehem will be on praying for peace.

Amid the rubble and the ruins, a poignant voice reverberates to announce that the light of hope will continue in the small West Bank town where the Christmas story unfolded.

Yustina Safar, a resident of Bethlehem and a student at Bethlehem University, collaborated with the London-based band Ooberfuse to deliver a strong message through a special Christmas song titled, “Hear the Cry of Angels.” The song reflects the belief that there is hope for a better future which is borne in the heart of humanity.

The comment reflecting on the song on YouTube says, “Hear Angels Cry" is not just a song but a heartfelt plea for unity, compassion, and the enduring power of hope, from the city were Lord Jesus was born, even in the most challenging circumstances. This Christmas, the world is invited to join in this message of solidarity and support of those affected by the ongoing struggles in the Holy Land."

The letter, which was signed by Holy See Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin, stated that the Holy Land is the home of Jesus, the Prince of Peace, and that it is called upon to be a place of meeting, dialogue and hope for all. He expressed his hope that this musical initiative will inspire numerous people this Christmas to pray for the enhancement of solidarity, reconciliation, and peace in the Holy Land.

On the other hand, His Holiness Pope Francis has not only heard this Christmas song, but he also sent a letter to Cardinal Vincent Nicholls, president of the United Kingdom Conference of Bishops, where he praised it because it drew attention to “the sublime importance of the city in which Lord Jesus Christ was born.”