This Christmas Eve, hundreds of thousands of pilgrims are anticipated to travel to Rome for the commencement of the yearlong Jubilee, a significant Catholic tradition that offers believers the opportunity for the forgiveness of sins.
In contrast, only a small number of pilgrims, possibly a few hundred, are expected to journey to Bethlehem, a site regarded by some theologians as the birthplace of Christianity.
The disparity between Rome and Bethlehem highlights differing circumstances as the Jubilee begins, a tradition celebrated every 25 years. Rome is investing billions to modernize the city, eager to showcase its rich history alongside contemporary comforts. Meanwhile, Bethlehem faces the challenges of a prolonged conflict, leaving its 34,000 residents struggling to earn a living wage.
In Rome, construction efforts are underway, with plywood walls and scaffolding surrounding landmarks as workers prepare for an influx of visitors from across the globe.
Conversely, a stark concrete wall nearly 40 feet high greets visitors to Bethlehem, a Palestinian city situated in the Israeli-occupied West Bank. Security checkpoints caution Israelis against entering the area due to perceived dangers.
A central feature of the Jubilee in Rome involves passing through the Holy Doors of four designated Catholic basilicas, allowing for plenary indulgence — the absolution of sins and the alleviation of any subsequent punishment.
Religious leaders in Bethlehem are hopeful for an announcement from Pope Francis in December regarding the potential designation of the Door of Mercy at the Church of the Nativity for indulgence as well.
According to Rev. Rami Askarieh, a Franciscan priest in Bethlehem, this announcement could motivate more pilgrims to visit, though he acknowledged that attendance is expected to be lower than in previous years due to ongoing conflict.
Rome is undergoing a significant modernization plan, with an estimated budget of $4.6 billion allocated for 322 construction projects aimed at accommodating the expected 35 million Catholic pilgrims through 2025.
Mayor Roberto Gualtieri emphasized the urgency of these improvements, stating they were overdue and accelerated by the upcoming Jubilee, which he described as a significant spiritual event amid global turmoil.
In Bethlehem, Mayor Anton Salman expressed concerns about the impact of regional conflicts on Christmas Eve festivities, traditionally the city’s busiest night. He noted that fears of violence and restrictions from Israeli military checkpoints have deterred many tourists.
Tourism has long been vital to Bethlehem's economy, but many residents who invested in hospitality and tourism now face a 37 percent unemployment rate, relying on a limited emergency budget to maintain city operations.
Past events, including the Second Intifada and the COVID-19 pandemic, have also devastated Bethlehem’s economy. Despite a brief resurgence in tourism prior to the pandemic, the current geopolitical climate poses significant challenges for the city.
While hopes remain for the designation of the Door of Mercy in Bethlehem as a Holy Door for the Jubilee, the mayor remains skeptical about attracting visitors during the current unrest.
In Rome, despite frustrations over construction and tourist influx, Mayor Gualtieri recognized the stark contrast with Bethlehem's struggles, conveying messages of solidarity and peace.
He remarked on the importance of the Jubilee as an opportunity for both cities, highlighting the deep connection between Rome, the capital of Catholicism, and Bethlehem, the birthplace of Christianity.