Following the overthrow of President Bashar al-Assad in early December, Syrian Christians marked a significant moment by attending Christmas Eve services.
In Sednaya, Syria, a large crowd gathered near a historic monastery on Christmas Eve for the lighting of a towering tree decorated with glowing green lights.
The festive celebration brought a rare sense of joy to a city deeply affected by years of war and the presence of a notorious prison where many were imprisoned.
Amid the illuminated tree, families and friends, some wearing Santa hats, others watching from rooftops, enjoyed festive music played by a band and fireworks lighting up the sky.
Attendee Houssam Saadeh remarked, “This year feels different, with happiness, victory, a new beginning for Syria, and a fresh start for Christ.”
Joseph Khabbaz expressed hopes for unity among all sects and religions in Syria.
At the Lady of Damascus Church in Syria’s capital, a diverse congregation of all ages filled the pews, holding candles as hymns filled the church.
Prior to the service, hundreds of protesters in Damascus voiced their outrage over the burning of a Christmas tree in Hama governorate, chanting slogans of solidarity and faith.
