Syrian Christians have attended Christmas Eve companies for the primary time for the reason that overthrow of President Bashar al-Assad in early December.
In Sednaya, Syria, a big crowd gathered close to a historic monastery on Christmas Eve to witness the lighting of a towering tree adorned with glowing inexperienced lights.
The celebration provided a uncommon second of pleasure in a metropolis scarred by greater than a decade of struggle and its notorious jail, the place tens of 1000’s had been held.
Households and mates stood by the illuminated tree, some carrying Santa hats, others watching from rooftops, whereas a band performed festive music and fireworks lit up the sky.
“This yr is completely different, there’s happiness, victory and a brand new start for Syria and a brand new start for Christ,” mentioned attendee Houssam Saadeh.
One other, Joseph Khabbaz, expressed hope for unity throughout all sects and religions in Syria.
The pews of Girl of Damascus Church in Syria’s capital stuffed with a blended congregation of younger and outdated, holding candles as hymns crammed the air and echoed via the church.
Hours earlier than the service, tons of of protesters in Damascus had gathered to denounce an incident through which a Christmas tree was burned within the northern countryside of Hama governorate in western-central Syria.
Carrying picket crosses, they chanted, “We’re your troopers, Jesus”, “With our blood and soul, we sacrifice for Jesus,” and “The Syrian persons are one.”
