December 21, 2000 — Mudeif Productions

*The Latin School of Zababdeh children celebrate Christmas, thanks to Roswell Presbyterian Church in Roswell, GA.*

Many have been talking about the lack of Christmas celebrations here due to the mounting death and destruction toll, particularly around Bethlehem. Adults (and many children) are finding it difficult to be cheerful in the face of all this (even as their were gunshots in the usual places near Zababdeh last night).

*“Baba Noel” is revealed as one of the teachers.*

*Latin School of Zababdeh children celebrate Christmas.*

*Fr. Louis, Baba Noel, and Marthame distribute Christmas gifts.*

As a visible sign of hope and faith in spite of tragedy, it is even more important this year for Christians to affirm the coming of the Prince of Peace. With the generous help of Roswell Presbyterian Church, the school was able to throw a Christmas party for the small children today.

*The creche at Zababdeh’s Latin Church.*

Zababdeh sent thank yous and holiday greetings to Roswell, distributed gifts to the children, and sang and danced to Christmas carols. Santa Claus ("Baba Noel") made an appearance as an old man with a cane (not quite the commercially overwrought version of Beit Sahour's patron saint that we get in the States) and in a wonderful turn, her true identity as one of the teachers was revealed.

It was a joyful party, and everyone (OK, not everyone - a few of the littlest ones were frightened by Baba) had a wonderful time. Tonight, with the church's manger scene almost complete, our Advent worship services continued - as the loudspeakers in the church tower announced - for the Novena (the nine days prior to Christmas), giving Marthame an opportunity to preach.

The liturgical season and the current situation come together quite powerfully as we continue to wait - for Christmas, for peace. Hope still flickers, like the light of Advent candle, in faithful anticipation.