Christmas cheer will be returning to the historic city of Bethlehem in the West Bank after a two-year pause due to the war in Gaza .

Bethlehem Mayor Maher Canawati announced that festivities will return starting Dec. 6, with a Christmas tree lighting in the famous Manger Square.

“From the heart of Bethlehem, the birthplace of Christ, the city of peace — once again, we ignite the flame of hope and raise our prayers for peace,” said the mayor in a video posted to Instagram.

“Let us celebrate together the message of Christmas,” he added. “Glory to God in the highest — on Earth, peace, goodwill to all. Bethlehem keeps the light alive.”

Located in the center of Bethlehem, Manger Square is named for the manger in which Jesus was laid after his birth.

Robert Jeffress, senior pastor of Fi

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