Thousands mark Christmas in Bethlehem

BETHLEHEM, Palestinian Territories - Tens of thousands of Christians flocked to Bethlehem to celebrate Christmas, crowding the ancient town where the Bible says Jesus was born.

Peace was a central theme in Patriarch of Jerusalem Fuad Twal's Christmas homily delivered in Bethlehem, where hotels and guesthouses were packed to capacity with pilgrims.

"We ask for peace, stability and security for the entire Middle East," said Twal, the most senior Roman Catholic in the Middle East.