Syrian Christians have attended Christmas Eve companies for the primary time because the 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 supplied a uncommon second of pleasure in a metropolis scarred by greater than a decade of battle and its notorious jail, the place tens of hundreds had been held.
Families and associates 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 beginning for Syria and a brand new beginning for Christ,” stated attendee Houssam Saadeh.
Another, Joseph Khabbaz, expressed hope for unity throughout all sects and religions in Syria.
The pews of Lady of Damascus Church in Syria’s capital stuffed with a combined congregation of younger and previous, holding candles as hymns crammed the air and echoed by way of the church.
Hours earlier than the service, tons of of protesters in Damascus had gathered to denounce an incident during which a Christmas tree was burned within the northern countryside of Hama governorate in western-central Syria.
Carrying picket crosses, they chanted, “We are your troopers, Jesus”, “With our blood and soul, we sacrifice for Jesus,” and “The Syrian persons are one.”
