Christmas 2025 Celebrated with Joy in Bethlehem After Two Years
Christmas 2025 celebrations have begun around the world with lights, prayers, and processions marking the birth of Jesus Christ. In Bethlehem, the birthplace of Jesus near Jerusalem, crowds gathered after a two-year pause to mark the holy night with renewed faith and festivity.
The city’s famous Manger Square, located near the Church of the Nativity, glittered with colorful lights and a grand Christmas tree. Thousands of pilgrims and visitors assembled to sing carols, light candles, and offer midnight prayers. After a gap caused by regional tensions, locals said this year’s celebration felt like a “rebirth of hope and unity.”
Pope Leo XIV Leads Christmas Prayers at Vatican
This year’s celebration also holds historic significance at the Vatican. Pope Leo XIV, elected earlier in May 2025, presided over his first Christmas Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica. On the night of December 24, he opened the Holy Door of the Basilica, symbolically marking the beginning of the season’s spiritual journey.
Holding a small figurine of Baby Jesus, Pope Leo urged believers to embrace compassion, peace, and togetherness in times of global uncertainty. “Christmas reminds us that light can shine even in moments of darkness,” he said during the midnight service, which was live-streamed across several countries.
Global Christmas 2025 Festivities
The joy of Christmas 2025 rippled far beyond the Holy Land. From Asia to Europe and Africa, millions joined in the celebrations:
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Frankfurt (Germany): Bells rang across Römerberg Square as hundreds gathered for traditional prayers and markets.
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Sydney (Australia): Beachgoers dressed in Santa costumes filled Bondi Beach, celebrating the festival with joy despite memories of the tragic December 14 shooting earlier this month.
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Beijing (China): Worshippers attended mass at the historic Church of the Savior, lighting candles for peace.
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Karachi (Pakistan): Midnight Mass at Central Brooks Memorial Church drew large gatherings from the Christian community.
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Kyiv (Ukraine): Residents lit candles on Christmas Eve, praying for lasting peace in the region.
A Message of Peace and Hope
This year’s Christmas 2025 celebrations have reaffirmed themes of faith, hope, and global unity. After several years of disruptions caused by global conflicts and crises, the return of vibrant Christmas festivities stands as a testament to resilience and renewal.
As the world lights up in faith and festivity, Bethlehem—the place where it all began—once again becomes the center of global spirituality, reminding everyone that the message of Christmas remains timeless: peace on earth and goodwill to all.
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