雅思阅读精选：圣诞节的朝圣之旅_雅思英语阅读

雅思阅读精选：圣诞节的朝圣之旅

　　Vera Baboun, mayor of Bethlehem, Palestine

　　For me, like other Christians in the Holy Land, Christmas means a new birth, a new beginning. Bethlehem is the city of the Nativity and all citizens, Christians and Muslims alike, come together in a unique celebration. On Dec. 16 we light the Christmas tree in Manger Square, and on Dec. 24 we have the most beautiful festivities when the Latin Patriarch processes to the old Church of the Nativity accompanied by scout groups playing drums and bagpipes. Then theres midnight Mass especially for the visitors, which is broadcast worldwide.

　　Its important that tourists spend some time in and around Bethlehem, visiting famous sites such as the Grotto of the Nativity and Shepherds Fields in the neighboring village of Beit Sahour, with its 4th century cave-church. But to really experience Bethlehems Christmas spirit, you need to walk our streets and talk to our people.

　　Mariam Shahin, author of Palestine: A Travellers Guide, Ramallah, Palestine

　　As Muslims, Christianity is part of our culture, as was Judaism before the conflict. Christmas is a holiday for us. It marks the birthday of the prophet Jesus, revered by Muslims.

　　Ramallah is very lively at Christmastime, with street decorations and services in the Orthodox, Catholic, Protestant and Coptic churches. In fact, there are literally dozens of churches for anyone wishing to do the full tour, including a Quaker Meeting House. We also have a Christmas Bazaar in the Cultural Palace and, if its peaceful, concerts, plays and dance performances. There are even hip-hop events for those who find choirs boring.