Bethlehem is at the heart of many religious traditions
Five or six miles south of Jerusalem is the city of Bethlehem. This area is considered one of the holiest to Judaism, Christianity and Islam.
A long and sorted history seized by many different groups Bethlehem came under British control after World War I. In 1948 it became Jordanian which lasted until 1967 with the “Six Day War.” At that time it came under Israeli rule. In 1995 the Palestinians gained it and until this day are in control. Outbreaks of violence are common in the area.
Christians believe Bethlehem was the birthplace of Jesus. Said to be born in a manger it was a grotto (cave). The Church of the Nativity was built on this site. It was named as a World Heritage Site and on their endangered list. Located on the West Bank; it is significant to both Christians and Muslins.
It is undergoing major renovations with presently major roof construction. Earlier this year in July restoration uncovered another hidden angel by use of thermal cameras. Administration is under Greek Catholic, Roman Catholic, Armenian Apostolic and Syriac Orthodox churches.
The Church of the Nativity is a combination of two churches and the crypt beneath. The church is unimpressive on the outside with the interior a typical basilica. It is designed with five aisles and features ornate wall coverings and floor tiles. Other elaborate appointments have been added throughout the years.
Bethlehem translates to “House of Bread” and a major part of the history of the Israelites. The “Tomb of Rachael” honors the matriarch of the Jewish People, who died during childbirth.
Bethlehem is a symbol of great importance to Muslims throughout history. Muslims do not believe in Christmas but encourage tourists as a source of income. They are not known for their “good will towards men.” They have taken the opportunity of the season for violent attacks. This is not all Muslims, but some go to extremes for their beliefs.
Manger Square in Bethlehem is a mecca for tourists and religious pilgrims especially during December and January. Christmas rites are celebrated on three different days. Roman Catholic and Protestants Dec. 25 – Greek, Coptic and Syrian Orthodox on Jan. 6 and Armenian Orthodox on Jan. 19.
Throughout the year other holy days and feasts are celebrated in Bethlehem. The city hasmore than two million visitors each year. 65% of income towards the city’s economy is fromthese visitors. 20% of Bethlehem’s population works in the tourist industry.
Outside the religious impact, Bethlehem has a life of its own. In 3,000 BC, Canaanite tribes established a town named Beit Lahama (today’s Bethlehem). Agricultural and trade are linked to nearby Jerusalem, which is a mountainous site, 2,600 feet above the Mediterranean Sea.
Today, an old and new mixture of buildings The town of Bethlehem plays a role in a few major religions.
makes-up the city of Bethlehem. Many of the dilapidated facades conceal a rich heritage. Half of the population is Christian and half Muslim. Schooling is mandatory for nine years with many students continuing on to universities in the area or abroad. In the district there are 75 public and 19 private schools.
Artisans offer a high quality works of their art. Many use Mother-Of-Pearl and olive wood in religious and secular items. Textiles, chemicals and stone manufacturing round out industry.
Around the world there 39 cities or towns named Bethlehem. Pennsylvania’s own Bethlehem is known as the “Christmas City.” It is located about 50 miles north of here. It was on Christmas Eve in 1741, when a small group of Moravians founded a mission community on the banks of the Monocacy Creek near the Lehigh River. They named it after the biblical town in Judea.
Today, the highlight of our Bethlehem is a large star on top of South Mountain. Originally 80 feet; it has been enlarged to 91 feet with 246 bulbs and is
visible for miles (at least 20). The only years that the lights and star of Bethlehem were not lit was in1941 to 1945, during World War II. Residents did not want their town to become an air-raid target.
This year Christmas Eve and the first day of Hanukkah fall on Dec. 24. Both are a celebration of joy, love, family and friends, let’s not forget and presents.
Mushrooms can be found on many dinner tables on Christmas Eve and latkas for Hanukkah.
MARINATED MUSHROOMS
1 lb. small whole mushrooms or sliced large mushrooms ½ cup white vinegar 1 tsp. salt ½ tsp. parsley flakes ¼ tsp. black pepper ¼ tsp. garlic salt 2 Tbsp. oil Clean and prepare mushrooms. In a sauce pan bring vinegar and salt to a boil. Add mushrooms and simmer for 10 minutes. Combine the last four items in a covered container along with mushrooms. Shake and coat the mushrooms thoroughly. Best when refrigerated overnight. Will keep several weeks in the refrigerator.
POTATO LATKAS
6 large potatoes, peeled 1 medium onion, grated 2 eggs 2 to 4 Tbsp. flour ½ cup milk salt & pepper 2 Tbsp. lemon juice (to retard oxidation) Vegetable oil for frying Process 5 potatoes in food processor on pulse until fairly fine. Shred 1 potato with hand grater. Mix all the potatoes, eggs, onion, milk, salt, pepper and lemon juice together. Add enough flour to make a nice batter.
Spoon mixture in desired size into hot frying pan with ¼” or so of hot oil. Fry until crisp on both sides. Serve with apple sauce, sour cream or your favorite topping.
Wishing the best for whatever holiday you Celebrate!
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