10 But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.” Luke 2:10
Dear Friends,
The Birth of Christ was perhaps the most significant and divine event of humanity. God reconciled us back to Himself, and gave joy, hope and peace to the world! To Christians in the Holy Land, Christmas is a light in the darkness of their world. The Christians in the Holy Land, Bethlehem and the surrounding areas, hold on to the hope of the first Christmas, and hold on to the hope that joy and peace will be pillars of next Christmas, and always.
The Holy Land Christian Ecumenical Foundation exists to undergird and give substance to this hope. We are committed to a far-reaching impact, as we strive to bring hope, encourage peace, create jobs, advance education, rehabilitate homes, support the elderly, and the moral and spiritual development of children every day of the year!
Much of HCEF’s work takes place around Bethlehem as we endeavor to renew hope for the Christians of the Holy Land in these very difficult times. Still they are living under occupation, enduring the very high unemployment rate, and restriction of movement in their homeland. Yet, despite the many challenges facing our Palestinians brothers and sisters today, they remain steadfast! They have maintained the faith for over 2000 years and still they cling to the hope of the Christmas promise: “peace on earth; goodwill towards men.” Your continued support helps us make their hope a reality, and reminds them that they are not forgotten.
Gratitude is the heart of the Christmas spirit, and HCEF is most grateful!! THANK YOU to our many volunteers, supporters and friends who work tirelessly alongside us, and stand with us in our commitment to “replace despair with HOPE, fear with HUMAN SECURITY, and humiliation with DIGNITY.” This IS the priority of HCEF- until we live in peace in the land of our prophets – as two states for two people and three faiths!
The HCEF Board of Directors, Staff and I extend our warmest wish for each of you to have a blessed Christmas, and a prosperous and safe New Year!
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! 
Peace and blessings always,
Rateb Rabie, KCHS
President/CEO
