MIDEAST-PALESTINIAN-RELIGION-CHRISTMAS

Christian worshipers light candles inside the Church of the Nativity in the West Bank town of Bethlehem on Christmas Day on December 25, 2008. War and economic hardship loomed over Christmas celebrations across the world. From Jesus Christ's traditional birthplace, the ancient town of Bethlehem in the conflict-stricken West Bank, to the sun-washed beaches of Australia, Christians and non-believers alike took time off to mark the festive holiday as world leaders reflected on the grim backdrop. AFP PHOTO/MUSA AL-SHAER