Thousands of Christians, tourists, locals, civil and religious authorities participated in the lighting of the Christmas Tree and Christmas lights in the Manger Square in Bethlehem. Among those present, were the Nuncio for Israel and Cyprus and Apostolic Delegate for Jerusalem and Palestine; Msgr. Leopoldo Girelli, the Custos of the Holy Land; Fr. Francesco Patton and the Latin Patriarchal Vicar for Jerusalem and Palestine; Msgr. Giacinto Boulos Marcuzzo . The ceremony began with the performance of Palestinian scouts and speeches by mayors from European cities, which are sister cities of Bethlehem and have strong ties. During the event, there were musical performances and artistic exhibitions on the theme of Christmas and the numerous significances that this celebration brings. GLORIA NASSER Social Worker – Local Christian "As a Palestinian woman in Bethlehem, I am proud to have been born in the land where our Lord Jesus Christ was born. Jesus wants us to change our lives and start a new life full of joy and peace". RAMI EL ASSI Student – Local Christian "I was born in Bethlehem, where Jesus was born. He is our greatest joy. We hope he stays with us ". SR. VITTORIA VALENTINO Congregation of the Sacred Heart of the Incarnate Word "The feeling is indescribable because so many feelings are intertwined. It is a grace, a gift and it is wonderful to be here in Bethlehem where Jesus was born, to begin this liturgical time of waiting for the celebration of the mystery, that changed the history of the world, and the history of each of us! " ISSA SAKHLEH Human Resources – Local Christian "Christmas is a new beginning for everything; let us renew our lives, our hearts, and renew our relationship with the Lord and our fellow human beings ". DANA ALSHATLEH Engineer – Local Christian "I'm from Bethlehem, and for me, Christmas is one of the most beautiful times of the year". The mayor of the city, Anton Salman, hopes that the illumination of Bethlehem is an occasion for joy and hope: "We pray to the Almighty because the star that illuminated the skies of Bethlehem and led the Magi, is a sign of freedom, peace and salvation for all people ". After the countdown, the Christmas Tree lights were lit. Once again the skies of the city where the Saviour was born, lit up!