Pope Francis unveiled the Vatican’s annual nativity scene on Saturday, highlighting the Holy Family’s connection to occupied Bethlehem. This year, the baby Jesus figure was draped in a Palestinian keffiyeh, a traditional symbol of Palestinian identity and resistance.
The nativity scene was crafted by Palestinian artists from occupied Bethlehem. It featured a Bethlehem Star inscribed in Latin and Arabic with the message: “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill to all people.” The Holy Family figures were carved from olive wood, symbolizing their roots in Palestine.
The display was created in partnership with the Palestinian Presidential Committee for Church Affairs, the Palestinian Embassy to the Vatican, Dar Al-Kalima University, and the Beitcharilo Center. Ramzi Khouri, a senior Palestinian official and head of the Church Affairs Committee, joined the Pope at the ceremony.
During the unveiling, Pope Francis presented a Bethlehem Star to two Palestinian children representing the committee. The star symbolized the hardships faced by Palestinian children amid ongoing Israeli terrorism.
Following the unveiling, a Mass for peace and a ceasefire in Palestine was held at the Angeli Chapel. Deputy Custodian of the Holy Land Ibrahim Faltas, Father Ibrahim Shomali, and Monsignor Marco led the service.
Pope Francis used the event to call for an end to Israel’s violence.
“Enough wars, enough violence!” he said. “Did you know one of the most profitable industries here is weapons manufacturing? Profit from killing. Enough wars!”
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He prayed for peace to reign across the world and for all people to feel God’s love.
The Pope’s remarks come as he faces outrage from pro-Israel figures. He recently called for an investigation into whether Israel’s actions in Gaza constitutes genocide. He also condemned the deaths of children and Israel’s attacks on a Gaza church.
Through this nativity scene, the Vatican sent a message of solidarity with Bethlehem and the broader Palestinian struggle, underscoring its hopes for peace and justice during this holy season.
