In the Christian town of Qaraqosh in Iraq, the church is packed on Christmas Eve. Everywhere in the city you find lighted Christmas trees and other decorations. The house where Lydia, 11, and her family live is decorated inside and out. "We are very happy and ready for Christmas!" she says.

Only a few years ago, this city full of Christmas spirit was dark: For almost two years militants of the so-called 'Islamic State' occupied the city. The majority of inhabitants fled; many of those who stayed were killed or abducted.

Lydia started preparing for Christmas early: " We started at the first of November to learn about the story of the birth of the Jesus in my Christian education class. We read a part of the Bible each week and we answer the questions that the teacher gave us."

The memory is still fresh with Yousif, 12. A verse from the Bible and a prayer he has learned during the Christian education class he attends helps him in difficult times:

"The Lord said, 'Do not be afraid'. I pray to Him and say:

We need you today and every day,

lend a helping hand and protect us from the harms,

we are begging and trust on you,

to bless the coming year.

Amen

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