In Pale Light: Syria's Christians Celebrate Advent

After Syria's power shift: Christians celebrate Advent in Latakia. Hope emerges, but fear of radical Islam persists.

With the unexpected coup by Haiat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), a group that emerged from the Islamist terror network Al-Qaeda, the fate of minorities in Syria remains uncertain. Chief among them are the Christians, who under the ousted leader Bashar al-Assad found protection from Islamist extremists, now facing an uncertain future.

Nevertheless, members of the Christian community in the port city of Latakia gathered at the Cathedral of St. George to celebrate Advent. Numerous Muslims also joined the attendees. Many comments in online forums further spark hope that the situation for minorities might ease in the future.

Yet many still do not trust the fragile peace. Some stayed home out of fear of potential terrorist attacks. The memories of looting and the sight of flags bearing Islamist symbols from just a few years ago remain vivid. The fear of rule by radical groups like the Islamic State (Daesh) still lingers in people's minds.

The path ahead for Syria remains uncertain, but gatherings like this offer a glimmer of hope.