“The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.”  – John 1:5 Bethlehem—the city where heaven touched earth. The town where Mary gave birth to the Savior of the world remains a sacred symbol of hope, peace, and divine promise. Yet today, Bethlehem is also a city under pressure. Political unrest, religious persecution, and economic hardship have made life difficult for its Christian community. And still, through these very trials, the Gospel is flourish

I. Introduction: A New Year in the Land of the Oldest Story As the calendar turns to a new year, many around the world embrace the familiar rhythm of reflection and renewal. We make resolutions, set new goals, and reorient ourselves toward what we value most. For Christians, this process often involves rededicating ourselves to Christ’s mission, asking how we can better reflect His love in the year ahead. But as we look forward, we also look back—to the roots of our faith, to