Addressing the donors of this year’s Nativity scene and Christmas tree in St. Peter’s Square, Pope Francis reiterated his passionate appeal for peace in the face of continued war and violence in the Holy Land and around the world. Ta.
Lisa Zengarini
“Enough of the war! Enough of the violence!”: these poignant words echoed again on Saturday at the Paul VI Hall. There, Pope Francis held an audience with the delegation who presented them with this year’s Nativity scene and Christmas tree in St. Peter’s Square on Saturday afternoon.
The Nativity was created in the city of Grado in the Friuli Venezia Giulia region of northern Italy, and the majestic 29 meter tall spruce tree comes from the Ledro Forest in the Trentino region.
The inauguration of “Bethlehem Nativity 2024”, created by local artisans and exhibited in the Paul VI Hall, was also attended by representatives of the Palestinian Embassy of the Holy See.
Ledro’s Christmas tree in St. Peter’s Square
Tree: metaphor of the church
Reflecting on the towering Christmas tree, Pope Francis noted that it was felled based on ecological principles for natural forest regeneration, and emphasized its deeper spiritual meaning. He said the church, with its intertwined old and young branches reaching skyward, is a powerful metaphor for the church. The only source of information: Yes. ”
The Nativity is a Message of Humility and Communion
Turning to the Nativity scene displayed in St. Peter’s Square, which was modeled after the traditional “cazone” of Lake Grado, Pope Francis said that these modest buildings, built from simple materials such as mud and reeds, The fisherman’s hut speaks to us about Christmas. God became man to fully share in our poverty and build His kingdom on earth, not through powerful means, but through the humble resources of our humanity, purified and strengthened by God’s grace. ”
There is space for everyone in the church.
He also drew parallels between the “batera”, a typical flat-bottomed boat used to navigate the lagoon, and the church as a vessel that leads people to Christ.
Jesus cannot be reached “alone.” As long as we come together in community, in the small but great boat that Peter continues to lead, there will always be room for everyone.
No more war!
Finally, turning to the Nativity made in Bethlehem, Pope Francis said that this Nativity serves as a reminder of our brothers and sisters who have suffered the tragedies of war in the Holy Land and other parts of the world and who once again evoked peace. He said he would. “Enough of war, enough of violence!” he complained, strongly criticizing the military industry that thrives on war and death.
“The Nativity of Bethlehem 2024”
The Nativity of Bethlehem 2024, on display in Paul VI Hall, was designed by two artists from Bethlehem, Johnny Andonia and Faten Nastas Mitswasi. The main structure is 3 meters high and consists of a circular base with shelves displaying various Nativity scenes, and the famous Star of Bethlehem at the top.
This expression combines the centuries-old traditions of local artisans with contemporary elements. Materials used include iron for the main structures, olive wood for the statues of the Holy Family and other depictions, and mother-of-pearl, stone, ceramics, glass, felt, and cloth. During the preparation, collection, and construction of the artwork, the artists collaborated with several local Christian institutions.
Unveiling of the Christmas tree and Nativity in St. Peter’s Square
The unveiling of the Christmas tree and the Nativity in St. Peter’s Square will take place on Saturday at 6:30 p.m., presided over by Cardinal Fernando Bergès Arzaga, Governor of the Vatican City, and Sister Raffaella Petrini, Secretary General. Participants in the ceremony included Bishop Carlo Roberto Redaeli of Gorizia and Bishop Lauro Tisci of Trento. The mayors of Grado and Ledro, and the president of the province of Trento.
Pope Francis presents a model of the typical “Batera” of Lake Grado
Grado’s Nativity scene reflects the city’s unique lagoon side, a vibrant and historic part of its identity, and has love as its guiding theme.
Redro’s choice of the Christmas spruce tree was based not only on its aesthetic value, but also on its environmental responsibility. Its removal will ensure the natural regeneration of the forest for decades to come. The local forests are PEFC certified, meaning they are managed according to the most rigorous environmental, social and economic standards.
