Christmas celebrated in Bethlehem

A cross is held during Christmas celebrations outside the Church of the Nativity, traditionally believed by Christians to be the birthplace of Jesus Christ, in the West Bank town of Bethlehem, Monday, Dec. 24, 2012.

Christians from the world over packed Manger Square in Bethlehem Monday to celebrate the Nativity. Devout Christians said it was a moving experience to be so close to the origins of their faith.

"It's a special feeling to be here, it's an encounter with my soul and God," said Joanne Kurczewska, a professor at Warsaw University in Poland, who was visiting Bethlehem for a second time at Christmas.

Credit: AP Photo/Adel Hana