Vatican Christmas tree and Nativity Scene inaugurated in St. Peter’s Square

The Vatican’s Christmas tree and Nativity Scene were lit up and officially inaugurated in St. Peter’s Square on Monday, 15 December, by Sister Raffaella Petrini, President of the Governatorate of the Vatican City State.

“Today, in this square that embraces the world, the Nativity scene and the Christmas tree are not merely Christmas decorations, but signs of communion, calls to peace and to the care of creation, and invitations to universal fraternity, which St. Francis placed above all else and which became the hallmark of his charism,” she said, recalling that next year will mark the 800th anniversary of the death of the Saint of Assisi, who began the tradition of Nativity Scenes in 1223.

Religious and civil representatives from the dioceses that donated the elements were present and spoke at the inauguration event, and earlier in the day had the chance to meet with Pope Leo XIV.