In Manger Square, Christmas provides reasons for hope, residents say

Published: 2003-12-29

BETHLEHEM, West Bank (CNS) -- Some 2,000 pilgrims, tourists and local residents came out to celebrate Christmas Eve at Manger Square. The numbers were slightly larger than the crowds for the past three years, after the start of the Palestinian uprising, or intifada, but much smaller than years when Manger Square was teeming with people. This year, young Palestinian souvenir salesmen and their customers added a celebratory air to Manger Square despite the small crowd. Vendors, who sold hot corn, grilled meats, helium balloons, and sahlep -- a sweet, hot, milk-based drink -- were reminiscent of years past when the square was packed with visitors and music. And while the outdoor musical program ended earlier this year than before, local Palestinians savored the relatively festive atmosphere compared to recent Christmases, when increased violence from the intifada kept tourists away.

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