Christmas at St Peter's

 
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Each year a theme for the Nativity scene is chosen and implemented by the Vatican government. Pope Benedict XVI has praised both the Christmas tree and Nativity Scene as part of the "spiritual heritage" of Christians who mark Jesus' birth in the context of what he has condemned as the "race to consumerism and the search for material goods" in the modern world.




"Be not afraid," says the angel to the shepherds, "for to you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, who is Christ the Lord" (Lk 2:10-11). Like the unnamed and fortunate shepherds, let us too run to meet the One who has changed the course of history.

MIDNIGHT MASS HOMILY OF THE HOLY FATHER Christmas, 24 December 2003

Christmas at St Peter's Square A girl poses for a photo in St Peter's Square at Christmas An ornament from the Christmas Tree in St Peter's Square Christmas Tree in St Peter's Square being lifted with a crane
The Nativity Scene in St Peter's Square from the Cupola of the Basilica Night time at the Nativity Scene in St Peter's Square 2005 Workmen adjust the star on the Christmas Tree in St Peter's Square 2007 The Nativity Scene in St Peter's Square
Midnight Mass in St Peter's Basilica with Benedict XVI The unveiling of the Nativity Scene in St Peter's Square A Christmas Crib (Precepio) inside St Peter's Basilica Nighttime during Christmas at St Peter's Square
An evening view of the Nativity Scene in St Peter's Square Nativity Scene in St Peter's Square 2006 American Soilders at Midnight Mass 1944 Nativity Scene in St Peter's Square 2007



 

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