Life is returning to normal in the West Bank town of Bethlehem
following the Israeli pull-out.
Inside the Church of the Nativity compound, which was under siege for
nearly six weeks, the clean-up has begun.
The church itself has been opening to the public, but has had to close
more than once to cope with the crush of curious visitors.
The 39-day siege has clearly taken its toll on the ancient
building
The complex is lettered with debris
It all has to be taken outside before the church can be
properly cleaned
Sawdust is strewn across the marble floors
Volunteers and priests alike join in with the mopping up
Even the outside of the complex has to be hosed down
From the roof of the complex the fire damage is clearly visible
But Christian leaders are united in thanks for the peaceful end
to the stand-off
