The Christmas season officially arrived in the heart of the Church this week as the Vatican inaugurated its Christmas tree and Nativity Scene in St. Peter’s Square, marking a moment of faith, unity, and hope for pilgrims around the world.
The ceremony took place on December 15 and was led by Sister Raffaella Petrini, President of the Governatorate of Vatican City State, alongside civil and religious representatives from the Italian dioceses that donated the Christmas elements. According to Vatican News, the event highlighted not only the beauty of the decorations but their deeper spiritual meaning for the universal Church.
An Urgent Message from Sister Sara – Please Watch
Addressing those gathered, Sister Petrini emphasized that the Nativity Scene and Christmas tree serve a purpose far beyond decoration. She explained that they are “not merely Christmas decorations, but signs of communion, calls to peace and to the care of creation, and invitations to universal fraternity,” according to Vatican News. She also pointed to the Franciscan roots of the Nativity tradition, recalling that St. Francis of Assisi first introduced the Nativity scene in 1223, an anniversary that approaches its 800th year.
The Nativity Scene itself was created by the Diocese of Nocera Inferiore-Sarno in southern Italy and reflects the cultural, spiritual, and agricultural heritage of the region. According to Vatican News, the display incorporates traditional architectural features, ancient Roman stone road designs, and life-size shepherds and animals. It also honors saints and holy figures connected to the area, including St. Alphonsus Liguori and Servants of God Father Enrico Smaldone and Alfonso Russo.
Symbols of food and wine—central to both local culture and Catholic life—are woven throughout the scene, underscoring the connection between daily labor, creation, and God’s providence, according to Vatican News.
Towering nearby, the Vatican’s Christmas tree is a 25-meter European spruce donated by the Diocese of Bolzano-Bressanone in northern Italy. The tree, weighing approximately 8,000 kilograms, was gifted by the municipalities of Lagundo and Ultimo, according to Vatican News. In addition to the main tree, dozens of smaller trees will decorate Vatican offices and public spaces throughout the season.
Care for creation remained a central theme of the celebration. Vatican News reported that once the Christmas season concludes, essential oils will be extracted from the tree’s branches, while the remaining wood will be recycled, reflecting the Church’s commitment to environmental responsibility.
Musical performances by the Vatican Gendarmerie band and choirs from the participating dioceses accompanied the inauguration, filling St. Peter’s Square with traditional Christmas songs and festive joy, according to Vatican News.
The Nativity Scene and Christmas tree will remain on display until the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord on January 11, 2026, inviting pilgrims and viewers worldwide to reflect on the mystery of the Incarnation and the enduring message of peace proclaimed at Christ’s birth.
Your support brings the truth to the world.
Catholic Online News exists because of donors like you. We are 100% funded by people who believe the world deserves real, uncensored news rooted in faith and truth — not corporate agendas. Your gift ensures millions can continue to access the news they can trust — stories that defend life, faith, family, and freedom.
When truth is silenced, your support speaks louder.
