In the Vatican, the Pope expresses his gratitude to those who donated the manger and the Christmas tree in the square of St. Peter’s Basilica.
Joey Kariveli, Vatican City
The Pope said that the lit Christmas tree represents Jesus who comes to shine light in our darkness and often in the shadow of sin, fear and pain and in our closed existence.
On Saturday (03/12/22), Pope Francis received and addressed those who presented a manger and planted a Christmas tree in the courtyard of St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican on Saturday (03/12/22).
The manger and Christmas tree were inaugurated in Vatican Square on Saturday evening. The Pope said that the Christmas tree and the haystack are two symbols that attract children and adults alike.
The Pope explained that humans need roots just as trees do, because those rooted in good soil stand firm, grow, bear fruit, withstand the tossing wind and be a sign to those who look upon it. But none of this can happen in the absence of roots, the Pope said, and therefore, as in life, it is necessary to preserve the roots in faith.
Referring to the manger, the Pope exhorted that it speaks of the birth of the Son of God who became man to be with each one of us, and that the manger, in its true poverty, helps us rediscover the true richness of the universe and cleanse it of the many things that pollute the universe.
Pope also said that the simplicity of the hayloft reminds us of a resurrection that is different from the consumer-commercial ones. The Pope added that it reminds us how good it is to preserve moments of silence and prayer in our days, which are often overwhelmed by frenzy.