Bethlehem, Manger Square, Star Street

Bethlehem is located in Palestine and has a population of about 39,000 people. The area is under full control of the Palestinian Authority and even though it is in the inheritance of Judah, Israelis are not permitted to enter Bethlehem. Since our tour guide was an Israeli, he arranged for a Christian Arab woman from Bethlehem to be our guide. Her name was Sanna and she was born and raised here. She and her husband are raising their children here. Sanna told us that Bethlehem used to be 40% Christian but now only 20%. Many Christians are leaving for work somewhere else because there is no work for them in Bethlehem. She said the Muslims are taking over. But Sanna said she and her family are staying just to keep a Christian presence in Bethlehem. Pray for Sanna and her family.
On the far end of Manger Square and to the left of the tower building is Star Street. At the time of Jesus's birth, this was the only street in and out of town. Mary and Joseph traveled on this very road the night Jesus was born. King David was also born in Bethlehem.Read more