Syrian Christians Celebrate Christmas Eve Under Tight Security
In a sign of hope for religious minorities in Syria, Christian churches held Christmas Eve services for the first time since the fall of President Bashar al-Assad in early December.
Security Concerns
The services were held under tight security due to concerns of violence against Christian sites. Several pickup cars belonging to the ruling Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) were parked around the Lady of Damascus Church in Syria’s capital. Despite the precautions, the pews filled with a mixed congregation of young and old, holding candles and singing hymns.
Protesters Denounce Incidents of Violence
Hours before the service, hundreds of protesters in Damascus gathered to denounce an incident in which a Christmas tree was burned in the northern countryside of Hama governorate in western-central Syria. Carrying wooden crosses, they chanted "We are your soldiers, Jesus", "With blood and soul, we sacrifice for Jesus," and "The Syrian people are one."
HTS’s Pledge to Protect Minority Rights
De facto ruler Ahmed al-Sharaa has told Christians and other groups that they will be safe in a Syria run by his HTS. Although a former leader of a Sunni Muslim Islamist group that sees Christians as infidels, Sharaa has shed his jihadist uniform and switched to business suits in recent appearances. He has told visiting Western officials that HTS will neither seek revenge against the former Assad regime nor repress any other religious minority.
Concerns Remain
Despite Sharaa’s pledges, many Christians remain unconvinced. The Christmas tree burning was one of several incidents targeting Christians since the fall of the regime. On December 18, unidentified gunmen opened fire at a Greek Orthodox church in Hama, attempting to destroy a cross and smashing headstones in a cemetery.
Jihadist Songs
In a separate incident, Reuters reporters saw several SUVs driving through Bab Touma, a predominantly Christian neighborhood of Damascus, blasting out jihadist songs from their speakers.
Conclusion
As Syria navigates a new political landscape, the celebration of Christmas Eve is a beacon of hope for religious minorities. While the recent incidents of violence have caused concern, the government’s pledges to protect minority rights must be upheld. Only then can Syrians of all faiths and backgrounds look forward to a brighter future.
FAQs
- What was the security situation like during the Christmas Eve services?
The services were held under tight security, with several pickup cars belonging to HTS parked around the church. - How did protesters react to the burning of the Christmas tree?
Protesters carried wooden crosses and chanted anti-violence slogans, demanding protection for minority rights. - Has the HTS pledged to protect minority rights?
Yes, HTS leader Ahmed al-Sharaa has told Christians and other groups that they will be safe in a Syria run by his HTS.