KUWAIT CITY, Dec 24: As Christmas approached, Metropolitan Ghattas Hazim, the head of the Greek Orthodox community in Kuwait and Baghdad, along with their affiliates, has announced a decision to forego the usual New Year celebrations in Kuwaiti churches. Instead, the churches will limit themselves to prayers only, as a gesture of mourning for the late Amir Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah and in solidarity with the Palestinian people facing hardships, particularly the recent massacres in Gaza.

Expressing deep sorrow and pain over the loss of the late Amir and the tragic events in Gaza, Hazim emphasized the inappropriateness of festive celebrations during such trying times, stating, "How can we rejoice when the land of Christ is in pain?"

Hazim further explained that the Kuwaiti churches will devote their prayers to the success and health of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad, acknowledging him as a leader of wisdom and firmness. Additionally, prayers will be offered for the late Amir Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad, for his soul to rest in peace.

In conclusion, Hazim conveyed a heartfelt plea, asking for God's intervention for the people in Gaza, hoping for an end to the ongoing war and the establishment of peace in the birthplace of Christ, where the teachings of compassion and love originated.