Every Day is Christmas When You’re in Bethlehem

With Issa Ghattas

About the Tour:

Bethlehem is the famous birthplace of Jesus. And for that reason, pilgrims from all over the world flock to this city around Christmas time. But Bethlehem is holy during all the seasons, and this tour will give you the opportunity to dive into the spiritual atmosphere and religious wealth of this beautiful city

Curated By:
Issa Ghattas

Tour Duration:
Half-day Tour

What to Bring:
Bible, water, your hymnal book, respectful clothing (covering elbows and knees)

About the Guide

Issa Ghattas

With Issa Ghattas has a background in orthodox theology from Greece and brings his religious expertise on his tours in Bethlehem. Every day, he joins the mass at the Church of Nativity and is one of the main chanters there. For Issa, the Church of the Nativity is not a museum or a historical site. It is “his” spiritual heart, which he is happy to share with you.

Tour Highlights

Get a deeper understanding of the importance of iconography for the faith of the local community Listen to biblical stories and reflect on them Hear the Christmas carols as the people sing them here, because every day is Christmas in Bethlehem Explore the Church of Nativity with its rich history and iconography

Tour Details

At the Bethlehem Icon Center we will learn about the spiritual importance of icons for Orthodox Christians. This is a good preparation for our next stop: the world-renowned Church of Nativity, where we will get an in-depth introduction to the local sites that are sacred to believers from all Christian denominations. Other places of biblical importance include: the “Shepherds’ Field” in Beit Sahour Village, the “Well of Virgin Mary” where a miracle happened before her journey to Egypt, and the Solomon Pools, an important water source in Roman times. At all of these places, there will be enough time for your personal prayers and spiritual reflections.

Testimonials

Every time I go to church or read the bible I visit Bethlehem, this spiritual journey is more inline with my expectations of the city.

I love Christmas carols. never have I thought to be singing the carols in the little town of Bethlehem. It’s such an amazing experience.

This tour provided me with an insight to different church traditions, especially Eastern traditions. I very much appreciate the faith of Issa and his commitment.

No longer do I feel the need to visit a souvenir shop to buy a gift to remember Bethlehem. I believe this tour has imprinted in me memories that will be eternal.