Vatican City - Addressing this year's contributors to the Nativity Scene and Christmas tree in St. Peter’s Square, Pope Francis emphasized the symbolic significance of the creche, urging reflection on the ongoing tragedy in the Land of Jesus. The Holy Father stressed the importance of "small gestures" to safeguard our common home.

On Saturday, Pope Francis welcomed two delegations from the Municipality of Macra and the Diocese of Rieti, responsible for gifting this year's Christmas tree and Nativity Scene, paying homage to the first Nativity Scene established by St. Francis of Assisi in Greccio 800 years ago.

During the audience, Pope Francis highlighted the historical connection between Greccio and Bethlehem, emphasizing its relevance amid the tragic war unfolding in the birthplace of Jesus. Expressing solidarity, especially with the children and parents affected, the Pope noted that they bear the true cost of the conflict.

Pope Francis had earlier recalled his namesake’s journey that brought about the Nativity scene 800 years ago:
The Nativity display set up in Saint Peter’s Square aims to evoke, after 800 years, the Christmas atmosphere of the year 1223 in the Rieti Valley, where St. Francis stopped. His journey to the Holy Land was still vivid in his mind and the caves of Greccio reminded him of the landscape of Bethlehem. Therefore, he asked to depict the Christmas scene in that small village: Many friars arrived from various parts, and men and women also came from the cottages in the area, creating a living nativity scene. Thus, the tradition of the nativity scene as we understand it was born.

Reflecting on the Nativity scene, Pope Francis encouraged sentiments of silence and prayer, allowing individuals to listen to the message from the manger, where Jesus is depicted as small, poor, and defenceless. He lauded the role of Mary as a model for contemplation and adoration in the face of the Nativity scene's wonder.

Pope Francis also commended the choice of the Christmas tree, a 28-meter spruce from the upper Maira Valley, near Turin. The tree, at risk of collapse, will be repurposed for toys for children in need after the festivities. Decorated with lights and live edelweiss flowers from a nursery, the tree exemplifies the significance of small gestures in ecological conversion, expressing respect and gratitude for God's gifts.

The inauguration ceremony for the Nativity Scene and Christmas tree in St. Peter’s Square is scheduled for 5 p.m. Rome time, presided over by Cardinal Fernando Vérgez Alzaga. Both installations will grace the square until the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord on January 7, 2024.