The Shepherds' Field

A road leads down from Bethlehem eastward to the town of Beit-Sahour, originally known as the Village of the Shepherds. Just past the main part of the town is the fertile plain commonly called the Field of Ruth. In the field towards the east of the village and according to tradition, the Christmas angel surrounded by a supernatural light appeared to the Shepherds who were " keeping the night watch over the flock", and suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly army, praising and singing: " Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men of good will ". The angel said to the Shepherds, " Fear not, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people for this day is born to you a Saviour, who is Christ the Lord, in the city of David." (Luke 2: 8-10). The Shepherds made their way then to Bethlehem to see the baby Jesus in the Manger.

The Literary tradition connected with the shepherds' Field are somewhat complicated by the fact that archaeologists have uncovered several possible sites.

On the north ridge of Beit-Sahour is the site known as Siyar el Ghanam, the place for keeping sheep. Here there is evidence for the occupation of various caves from the time of the New Testament. There are remains of a late 4^th century church and a 6^th to 8^th century monastery. Today this area is taken care of by the Franciscans. In 1954, a small modern chapel was built almost over the caves.

A second site is located in the eastern part of the town of Beit-Sahour, where a Greek Orthodox Church has been built. Excavations have revealed a forth century mosaic floor in a grotto over which was built a fifth century church and later a larger sixth century Basilica.

A Wall Paint of the Angel appearing to the  Shepherds