Christmas Spirit Endures Amidst Conflict in Nabatieh, Lebanon
In the heart of Nabatieh, a predominantly Shiite city in southern Lebanon, the Christmas spirit has faced unprecedented challenges. Once celebrated for its towering 100-foot Christmas tree, which stood as a symbol of unity between the Muslim majority and the small Christian community, the festive season now grapples with the shadows of conflict and displacement.
For years, the National Evangelical School of Nabatieh (NESN) served as a hub of holiday cheer, where students—99% of whom are Shiite—joyfully participated in Christmas celebrations. The school’s vibrant community, which included around 20 Christian families, fostered an environment of inclusivity and goodwill. In 2018, the school proudly unveiled its magnificent wrought-iron Christmas tree, adorned with a glowing star, drawing hundreds of students, parents, and local dignitaries. Attendees donned Santa hats, exchanged gifts, and reveled in the joy of the season, embodying the spirit of Christmas in a region often marked by division.
However, the joyous celebrations came to a halt in 2023 amidst escalating violence between Israel and Hezbollah. Following a deadly attack by Hamas on October 7, which resulted in the deaths of over 1,200 Israelis, Hezbollah launched retaliatory strikes against Israel. The ensuing conflict led to a humanitarian crisis, forcing tens of thousands of residents, including many from Nabatieh, to flee their homes.
The impact on the local community has been profound. On October 16, an Israeli missile strike tragically claimed the life of Ahmed Kahil, the municipality’s president, along with ten others, as they coordinated relief efforts for the remaining families in the city. The once-thriving community of 80,000 residents has faced mass exodus, leaving behind a shell of its former self.
Despite the turmoil, NESN remained open for its 1,400 students initially, providing a safe haven for those displaced by the conflict. The school, founded by American Presbyterian missionaries in 1925, has long been recognized for its commitment to education and community service. Principal Shadi El-Hajjar, who has led the school since 2013, emphasized the importance of maintaining a sense of normalcy amidst chaos. “When you see your hometown destroyed, you have to ask: Why is this happening to those who are not involved?” he reflected, highlighting the shared grief of the community.
As the war intensified, the school transitioned to an online format, but it also opened its doors as a shelter for displaced families. The staff, comprising both Christians and Muslims, worked tirelessly to provide support and comfort to those affected by the violence. This spirit of cooperation was a poignant reminder of the bonds that unite the community, transcending religious and political differences.
The Christmas season of 2023, however, was marked by a somber atmosphere. With much of the city in ruins and the traditional marketplace—the souk—destroyed, the municipality decided against erecting a Christmas tree this year. Kahil’s successor, Khodor Kodeih, expressed the city’s collective mourning, stating, “The Messiah weeps over the martyrs.” While some families continued to celebrate privately, the public displays of Christmas spirit were notably absent.
In the face of adversity, the resilience of the NESN community shines through. The school has long been a symbol of coexistence, where students learn values of compassion and understanding. As the principal noted, “If Christmas isn’t found in your hearts, you won’t find it under a tree.” This message resonates deeply as families strive to keep the spirit of the holiday alive, even as they grapple with loss and uncertainty.
As the ceasefire brings a fragile peace, the hope for reconstruction and healing remains. The community’s commitment to rebuilding and restoring Nabatieh’s vibrant spirit reflects the enduring power of faith and unity. While the future may be uncertain, the legacy of love and compassion fostered within the walls of NESN will continue to inspire generations to come.
In a world often divided by conflict, the story of Nabatieh serves as a reminder that the true essence of Christmas—joy, hope, and togetherness—can prevail, even in the darkest of times. As families come together to celebrate, they hold onto the belief that peace will return, and with it, the joyous sounds of Christmas will once again fill the air.