Birthplace of Jesus to resume Christmas celebrations after war forced a two-year pause

Bethlehem Mayor Maher Canawati announced that festivities will return starting Dec. 6, with a Christmas tree lighting in famous Manger Square.

Located in the center of Bethlehem, Manger Square is named for the manger in which Jesus was laid after his birth.

Jefress continued, "The Bible teaches there will be no lasting peace in the Middle East until the Prince of Peace, Jesus Christ, returns to Earth to establish his kingdom."

"I have been mayor for 2.5 years," he said that year. "I have celebrated Christmas for three seasons and each season, [celebrations] are more organized and more attractive for the local community and for tourists."