This Christmas Eve, hundreds of thousands of pilgrims are expected to arrive in Rome to mark the beginning of a yearlong Jubilee, a significant Catholic tradition that offers believers the chance for the forgiveness of sins.
In contrast, only a few hundred pilgrims are anticipated to make the journey to Bethlehem, where some theologians argue that Christianity originated with the birth of Jesus.
The stark differences between these two pivotal cities in Christianity become evident as the Jubilee unfolds, traditionally celebrated every 25 years. Rome is investing billions to modernize and showcase its historical significance, while Bethlehem is grappling with the challenges of a prolonged conflict, where its 34,000 residents face economic hardship.
In Rome, construction crews are working diligently to prepare the city for the influx of visitors, with plywood walls and scaffolding surrounding many landmarks.
Conversely, visitors to Bethlehem encounter a formidable gray concrete wall, nearly 40 feet high, which signifies the Israeli occupation. Security checkpoints warn Israelis against entering the area due to perceived dangers.
A key feature of the Jubilee in Rome is the opportunity to pass through the Holy Doors of designated Catholic basilicas, which allows for plenary indulgence — the forgiveness of sins and alleviation of any associated afterlife penalties.
Religious leaders in Bethlehem are hopeful for an announcement from Pope Francis regarding the designation of the Door of Mercy at the Church of the Nativity for granting indulgence, which could potentially increase pilgrim numbers.
However, Father Rami Askarieh, a Franciscan priest in Bethlehem, acknowledged that fewer visitors are expected this year, attributing this to the ongoing conflict. “Sadly, the war is preventing realizing this indulgence, this celebration of forgiveness,” he stated.
Rome is undergoing a significant modernization initiative, with Mayor Roberto Gualtieri stating that the city has allocated approximately $4.6 billion for 322 construction projects in preparation for an estimated 35 million Catholic pilgrims expected by 2025. Enhancements include a new plaza near St. Peter’s Basilica and various infrastructural improvements.
In addition to physical upgrades, a citywide 5G network and an AI-generated app aimed at enhancing visitor accessibility will be introduced, along with the planting of over one million trees and the construction of a shelter for women and children.
Over the next decade, Gualtieri has proposed a $32 billion investment plan to further improve Rome’s transit systems and public spaces, emphasizing the necessity of these upgrades, particularly in light of the upcoming Jubilee.
Meanwhile, Bethlehem’s mayor, Anton Salman, expressed skepticism about the expected influx of visitors for the Jubilee, citing fears related to the ongoing conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon that have deterred tourists and led to flight cancellations.
Access to Bethlehem is restricted by Israeli military checkpoints, and many tour groups have ceased operations due to insurance issues stemming from the current unrest. “People are afraid that if they come to the Holy Land, or Bethlehem in particular, they are going to face challenges and problems,” Salman noted.
Tourism has historically been a cornerstone of Bethlehem’s economy, but the current situation has resulted in a 37 percent unemployment rate, with many residents struggling after investing in businesses that now face financial uncertainty.
Past events, such as the Second Intifada and the COVID-19 pandemic, have also severely impacted Bethlehem’s tourism, which had only begun to recover before the latest conflicts arose.
As Rome prepares for a bustling Jubilee, Father Askarieh remains hopeful that the Door of Mercy in Bethlehem will be recognized, while Salman remains doubtful about the potential for increased pilgrim numbers.
Despite the challenges, both mayors expressed solidarity, with Gualtieri acknowledging the stark differences in their respective situations and sending a message of peace and hope for Bethlehem’s future.