Christmas in Gaza: Bells Ring for the First Time in 2 Years Amid Ruins and Hope

For the first time in two years, Christmas bells are ringing in Gaza. In a city scarred by a devastating war with Israel, a Christmas tree was lit once again, but its glow couldn't hide the deep wounds left behind. Worshippers gathered, relieved to be alive but quietly mourning all that was lost.

A Prayer Mixed with Joy and Grief

On December 24, 2025, the Holy Family Church, Gaza's only Catholic parish, limited its celebrations to a prayer service and brief family gatherings, according to Al Jazeera. The simple act of lighting the tree brought a rare moment of joy. Dmitri Boulos, 58, recalled fleeing to the church for safety in the early days of the war. "But it turned out there was no safe place," he said. "The church was hit twice while we were inside, and we lost friends and loved ones." He added, "How can we celebrate when everything around us is wounded and sad?"

For Nowzand Terzi, 63, there's no desire to celebrate. She lost her home and then her 27-year-old daughter, who fell suddenly ill and couldn't get to a hospital in time because of the war. "My heart is still heavy," she said.

A Dwindling Community, A Shattered Landscape

Gaza's Christian population has dwindled from around 3,000 registered in 2007 to just a few hundred today. Before the war, it was estimated at 1,000. During the conflict, places of worship sheltering displaced civilians became targets. On October 19, 2023, an Israeli attack on the Greek Orthodox Church of Saint Porphyrius reportedly killed 18 people.

The physical destruction is immense. According to UN figures, over 80% of buildings across Gaza were damaged or destroyed. Gaza's Government Media Office states that Israeli restrictions on humanitarian supplies have left more than 288,000 families enduring a shelter crisis.

"I Hope the War Does Not Return"

Amidst the despair, there are attempts to reclaim a sense of normalcy. Edward Sabah, 18, hopes to complete the high school education that the war interrupted. Janet Massadm, 32, styled her hair and put on new clothes for the first time in two years. "We are tired of grief, loss, displacement, and fear," she said. "But what can we do? We must try to create joy and happiness."

"I hope the war does not return," she continued. "That people reunite with their loved ones, that we witness a better future, and that Gaza is rebuilt soon." It's a sentiment that appears to be shared by the entire community, celebrating Christmas in the ashes of their former lives.