Pope Francis revealed the Vatican’s annual nativity scene on Saturday, which this year included a symbolic twist: Baby Jesus was dressed in a Palestinian keffiyeh.
The nativity scene, created by Palestinian artists from Bethlehem, features a prominent Bethlehem Star inscribed with the Latin and Arabic message: “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill to all people.” It also showcases olive wood carvings of the Holy Family.
The keffiyeh, a traditional head covering worn by many in the Middle East, is a significant cultural symbol for Palestinians and represents their struggle against Israeli occupation.
The nativity scene was organized in partnership with the Palestinian Presidential Committee for Church Affairs, the Palestinian Embassy to the Vatican, Dar Al-Kalima University, and the Beitcharilo Center.
At the unveiling, Pope Francis was joined by Ramzi Khouri, a member of the Palestine Liberation Organization Executive Committee and head of the Palestinian Presidential Committee for Church Affairs. The Pope also presented two Palestinian children, representing the committee, with a Bethlehem Star, symbolizing the hardships faced by Palestinian children.
Following the unveiling, a mass was held at the Angeli Chapel to pray for peace and a ceasefire in Palestine. The service was led by Ibrahim Faltas, Deputy Custodian of the Holy Land, along with Father Ibrahim Shomali and Monsignor Marco.
Pope Francis has been outspoken about the ongoing conflict between Israel and Gaza, calling for an end to the violence. “Enough wars, enough violence!” he declared during the event. “Did you know that one of the most profitable industries here is weapons manufacturing? Profit from killing. Enough wars!”
He continued, “As our eyes fill with tears, we lift up our prayers for peace, that peace may reign over the entire world, and for all people whom God loves.”
The Pope has recently drawn criticism from pro-Israel figures after calling for an investigation into whether Israel’s actions in Gaza could be classified as genocide. He has also condemned the deaths of children in Gaza and the attacks on churches in the region.
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