[Video Transcript]
The songs of the Greek Orthodox clergy fill the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem during the afternoon service.
At this time of year, the church fills up with local and foreign visitors, but today it is practically empty. The parish priest, Father Issa, who was born in Bethlehem, says he had never noticed anything like it.
Usually people from all over the world stand in line to visit the sacred spot in the grotto where it is believed that Jesus was born.
And just outside the church, in the Nativity Scene of Plos angelesce de los angeles, the same decorations, lighting fixtures and music as always are missing.
Many of the residents had high hopes for the holiday season. The effect has been felt most intensely in businesses that rely on tourism, such as here in this shop that sells religious ornaments.
Back on the grounds, Father Rami, the parish’s Catholic pastor, prepares for Christmas, despite the empty hallways.
A message that is more there than ever.