Events bring together 200 youth.

NEW ROCHELLE, NY (April 16, 2025) Salesians in Bethlehem were able to organize Christmas events in 2024, thanks in part to donor funding from Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. Additional funding for the events was received from Opera Don Bosco in Milan, Italy.

A Salesian explained, “Through this project, the Salesians in Bethlehem promoted a sense of community and hope during the recent challenging times, offering emotional support, encouraging unity, and providing a break from the pressures of the conflict.”

With the funding, Salesians organized spiritual activities, including Christmas Mass services featuring traditional readings, carols and homilies. Prayer vigils offered a peaceful setting for reflection and communal prayer, fostering unity and support within the community. Additionally, Salesians facilitated Christmas carols and a performance by the local choir Sounds of Angels, which included members of young performers from the Bethlehem area.

Salesians also offered youth various activities, including a Christmas cookies workshop and a Christmas crafts workshop. Drama and theater activities were organized to allow participants to explore storytelling and performances to capture the holiday spirit. Finally, in response to the urgent need to support vulnerable families and institutions, Salesians distributed free bread with the help of dedicated volunteers.

The Salesian added, “These events brought together 200 youth, approximately 100 families, around 45 scout volunteers, and several invited institutions. The celebrations included meaningful spiritual activities that fostered a sense of community and holiday spirit among all participants.”

Since 1891, Salesian missionaries have been living and working in Bethlehem, initially establishing an orphanage for boys and later expanding programs to meet growing local needs. Today, Salesian missionaries provide a range of educational and social activities to support the local community. Salesians offer a technical and vocational training center, the bakery, a youth center and a scout group.

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