Holy Family Hospital of Bethlehem Foundation
Bethlehem is the heart of Christmas. Each December, Manger Square hosts a life—size nativity scene, illuminated by stars and a three-story Christmas tree. Liturgical choirs perform most nights, and the Christmas market draws visitors from all over the region and around the world.
This year is different. Most of the workforce has no salaries or work because of the absence of pilgrimages. While the war is over 40 miles away, Bethlehem suffers not from fighting or bombing, but from the halted economy.
This year in Bethlehem, there will be no Christmas tree, choirs, lights, or decorations. Christmas will be somber, reflecting on the recent events in Israel, Gaza, and the West Bank. But Christmas will not be without hope. Just as Mary and Joseph found shelter in the manger, the Holy Family Hospital, 1,500 footsteps from the birthplace of Christ, will provide refuge to mothers delivering their babies without regard to financial need or religious creed.
The Hospital is one of the very few employers continuing to pay full wages on time. Fewer families can contribute to their care as a medical bill competes with a bag of groceries. A donation to Holy Family Hospital is an investment in hope. It is a vote for the future of Bethlehem, the place where the Christ Child drew his first breath just 1,500 footsteps from Holy Family Hospital.
During this Christmas season, consider donating to Holy Family Hospital. Pick up a brochure or an “Angel Tag” from the St. Joseph alcove in the back of the Church. Inside there is an envelope where you can make a monetary donation and send it directly to the Holy family Hospital of Bethlehem Foundation in Washington, DC. Thank you for being part of the bridge which will carry the people of Bethlehem over the war and to the far side of peace.
