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Statement on Christmas 2002 in Bethlehem
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As the eyes of the whole
Christian world are turned to Bethlehem,
with the approach of Christmas, we appeal - with respectful
insistence - to all the parties, authorities, forces and
organizations present in the area to express and maintain a
commitment to enabling the Christmas and Epiphany observances to
take
place in a climate of serenity and good will, so that both the
religious and the popular celebrations can take place freely, as
a
sign of active hope for a peaceful future for the City of Bethlehem
and the entire Holy Land.
In view of the publicized appeals of the Holy Father, we are
confident that all the parties understand and appreciate the
transcendent importance of Christmas for Christian believers in
Bethlehem and throughout the world, as well as the special resonance
of this celebration of the Birth of the Prince of Peace for people
everywhere.
It is certainly our own sacred duty to carry out the specifically
religious observances in any and all circumstances as we did on
the
occasion of the Feast of St. Catherine, 23rd and 24th November
this
year. Our ability to do so is also - let it be recalled - guaranteed
under international law, including by international Agreements
entered into by both the Israelis and the Palestinians. At the
same
time, we so very much hope and desire that the Christian faithful
of
Bethlehem, and their neighbours, be able to take part in the
celebrations without fear or restrictions, and that pilgrims and
visitors too may enjoy unimpeded access.
In the midst of the continuing violent conflict, with its bitter
harvest of death and destruction, and following the traumatic
events
at the Shrine of the Nativity earlier this year, a peaceful Christmas
at Bethlehem should act as a quietly powerful testimony that peace
is
possible, and as an inspiring reminder that, with good will on
all
sides, it can surely be achieved.
The Franciscans of the
Custody of the Holy Land
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