Launch of Christmas season in Bethlehem - in pictures

  • A Palestinian band plays at the launch of the Christmas season in Bethlehem, occupied West Bank. Reuters
    A Palestinian band plays at the launch of the Christmas season in Bethlehem, occupied West Bank. Reuters
  • Palestinian scouts march during a ceremony at Bethlehem's Church of the Nativity. AFP
    Palestinian scouts march during a ceremony at Bethlehem's Church of the Nativity. AFP
  • A Palestinian marching band plays during the ceremony. Reuters
    A Palestinian marching band plays during the ceremony. Reuters
  • Custodian of the Holy Land Father Francesco Patton, centre, arrives for the ceremony. AFP
    Custodian of the Holy Land Father Francesco Patton, centre, arrives for the ceremony. AFP
  • Palestinian security officers stand guard as people watch the traditional annual march. AFP
    Palestinian security officers stand guard as people watch the traditional annual march. AFP
  • Father Francesco prays at the church. Reuters
    Father Francesco prays at the church. Reuters
  • Father Francesco kisses a cross during the ceremony. Reuters
    Father Francesco kisses a cross during the ceremony. Reuters
  • The grand ceremony at the Church of the Nativity. Reuters
    The grand ceremony at the Church of the Nativity. Reuters
  • Worshippers attend the ceremony. AFP
    Worshippers attend the ceremony. AFP