Palestinian Christians at Gaza City’s Holy Family Church lit their Christmas tree for the first time since Israel’s genocidal war on Gaza. The ancient church nestled in the Old City neighborhood of Gaza City and still standing after numerous Israeli attacks was decorated for the celebration of the birth of Jesus. Unicorn Riot heard from two young attendees of the services who shared that they were thankful to be able to be alive to celebrate.

“We decorated the tree,” said 17-year-old church attendee Edward Sabbagh. “We decorated the Nativity scene and the whole church. We’ve gotten into the holiday spirit, and now we’re at the Christmas mass.”

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