Most people don't realize it, but if the Magi were to try to enter Bethlehem today the wise men would not be able to get into the city. They would be turned away at the security gate and refused an entry permit.A UK based Christian charity called the Amos Trust has launched a new version of the Christmas nativity scene with a poignant and ironic difference.
Local craftsmen in Bethlehem updated a traditional olive wood nativity scene by adding the Israeli Separation wall, which surrounds the little town.
Canon Garth Hewitt, director of Amos Trust and guild vicar of All Hallows on the Wall, London said: "Most people don't realise how cut off Bethlehem is now and how difficult life is for the people living there. We are selling these nativity scenes in the hope that people will give a thought to those living in the little town this Christmas."
The £50 deluxe edition comes with a removable Separation wall - in case there's progress in the Middle East peace talksPart of the trust's work is with partner projects in Gaza, on the West Bank in Bethlehem, and in Israel where it works closely with Jewish, Muslim and Christian peacemakers.
Learn more: The Amos Trust.
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