"Christians in Damascus marked Christmas Mass on Wednesday at the Holy Cross Church amid an atmosphere of 'caution and vigilance'. Footage shows worshippers of all ages filling the church for the service, with a Christmas tree standing at the entrance as prayers were held. Archbishop Romanos Al-Hanna, Patriarchal Vicar, acknowledged the cautious mood while stressing the importance of continuing daily life. “True, there is caution, vigilance, and attentiveness, but life will go on. We cannot just sit and wait for tomorrow. We are the ones who go into tomorrow,” he said. Syrian expatriate Rodina Hanna, visiting from Canada to spend Christmas in her homeland, expressed disappointment with the subdued festive atmosphere. “There is disappointment, because I’m used to Qassaa being fully decorated, every house and tree. I haven’t witnessed Christmas for five years, and unfortunately, this year, it feels like there is no Christmas here,” she said. “Our message as Christians is always clear. We only want peace. To live in peace as we have for thousands of years alongside all religions,” she added. Since the current transitional government assumed power in Damascus in December 2024, media reports have documented violations against civilians from Druze, Alawite, Christian and other minority communities. Earlier this year, a suicide bombing at Mar Elias Church killed dozens, further deepening security concerns among worshippers."