Breaking News: Catholics and Jews Bridge Divide in Haifa Amid Vatican-Israel Tensions

December 24, 2025 - 5:03 AM ET

In a historic move, Catholics and Jews in Haifa, Israel, have come together to build trust despite ongoing Vatican-Israel tensions.

Rev. Yousef Yacoub, a Catholic priest, and Rabbi Na'ama Dafni of the Reform congregation Or Hadash joined forces at the St. Louis the King Cathedral's Christmas tree-lighting ceremony. The event saw a large crowd of approximately 4,000 Maronite Catholics gather to celebrate the holiday.

The rabbi lit a blue-and-white braided candle and delivered a nondenominational prayer, expressing hopes for peaceful holidays, quiet years, and good neighborliness. Rev. Yacoub invited Rabbi Dafni to participate in the ceremony, stating that they were both praying for light and peace.

This move comes as a positive step in bridging the divide between the two communities, amidst ongoing tensions between the Vatican and Israel.

Background context: Relations between the Vatican and Israel have been strained due to disagreements over issues such as the status of Jerusalem and the role of the Catholic Church in the region.

Current status: The joint ceremony marks a significant development in efforts to build trust between Catholics and Jews in Haifa. Further developments are expected as the two communities continue to work together.

This is a developing story, and we will provide updates as more information becomes available.