Amman, Jordan – In a heartfelt gesture of solidarity with the innocent victims in Gaza and Palestine, the Council of Jordanian Churches has decided to cancel all Christmas festivities and allocate the proceeds to support the beleaguered Gaza Strip.
Celebrations in Jordanian churches will be limited to church prayers-Source: Sky News
In an official statement released on Sunday, the Council outlined its commitment to a different approach to celebrating this year’s Christmas, emphasizing a focus on prayers and church rituals. The decision, which comes in response to the ongoing crisis in Gaza, signifies the Council’s dedication to providing immediate assistance to the suffering Palestinian population.
Points from the Council’s announcement:
| Decision Highlights | Impact and Initiatives |
|---|---|
| Christmas Celebration | * Focused on prayers and religious ceremonies. |
| Fund Allocation Date | * Proceeds from November 12, 2023, to benefit Gaza. |
| Support Channels | * Encourages donations through official church channels. |
| Canceled Activities | * Christmas bazaars, musical performances, gift drives. |
| Condemnation of Israel | * Strongly condemns Israel’s actions in Gaza. |
| Praise for Peace Advocates | * Commends Jordan’s peace efforts and international support. |
The cancellation of activities that were originally planned, such as Christmas bazaars, musical performances, and gift distributions for children, reflects the Council’s desire to show empathy for the innocent victims in Gaza and all of Palestine.
Furthermore, the Council’s statement expressed severe condemnation for Israel’s recent actions in Gaza, denouncing them as “barbaric and against international norms.” The Council also praised Jordan’s continuous efforts for peace and thanked the global community for its unwavering support in upholding humanitarian and political principles.
This profound decision to forgo festive celebrations in favor of aiding those in need serves as a powerful testament to the Council of Jordanian Churches’ dedication to humanitarian values and their commitment to alleviating the suffering of the people of Gaza. It exemplifies the spirit of Christmas in its truest sense, transcending borders and denominations to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those affected by conflict.
In these challenging times, the Jordanian Council of Churches stands as a beacon of hope and solidarity, sending a clear message that the true essence of Christmas lies in compassion, support, and unity with the oppressed.
