As we enter the season of festive religious feasts and celebrations this is the time of year when our families come together to rejoice, to give thanks to God for our blessings and to enjoy a special time with our loved ones. Sadly, the celebrations in the occupied territories will be muted this year. Many families are mourning the loss of a loved one, our children are not excited as they should be and most people are facing various degrees of financial hardship.
Dear friends and supporters,
As we enter the season of festive religious feasts and celebrations this is the time of year when our families come together to rejoice, to give thanks to God for our blessings and to enjoy a special time with our loved ones. Sadly, the celebrations in the occupied territories will be muted this year. Many families are mourning the loss of a loved one, our children are not excited as they should be and most people are facing various degrees of financial hardship.
Despite this bleak outlook our desire to see peace throughout both our land and the world is undiminished, especially as we are experiencing daily the devastating cost of conflict. The people of Beit Sahour, home of the Shepherds’ Fields where the first message of the birth of Jesus Christ was heard, believe peace and justice should prevail.
Our community wishes to extend our very best wishes and warm greetings to all of you, our friends, who have been so supportive to us, particularly during the current period of instability. We very much hope that the new year of 2002 will bring peace, stability and brotherhood to the whole world.
Fuad Kokaly
Mayor of Beit Sahour
