These are just a few of the over 100 nativity scenes on display under the colonnade in St. Peter's Square. This year, they have a special emphasis on culture and hail from 22 countries around the world, such as Guatemala, Taiwan and the United States.
ABP. RINO FISICHELLA
Pro-Prefect, Dicastery for Evangelization
It represents the universality of what the nativity scene expresses in every part of the world.
We are getting closer and closer to the Jubilee and so this exhibition of nativity scenes is included within that Jubilee preparation program. In fact it continues “The Jubilee is Culture.”
From Spain, this nativity scene depicts St. Teresa of Ávila near the manger with Jesus, Mary and Joseph.
And the Vatican display even features nativity scenes from countries at war, like Ukraine.
ABP. RINO FISICHELLA
Pro-Prefect, Dicastery for Evangelization
There are countries that are at war. But even despite this, Christmas also represents a time for them that should be of joy, serenity and above all, preparation for peace. Christ is our peace.
Artisans around the world used their creativity to convey this message of peace, joy and serenity. Like this one, made in honor of the Polish Ulma family who were recently beatified.
And this one, made by inmates in an Italian prison.
The display in St. Peter's Square is open for free for visitors everyday from 10am to 7:30pm until Sunday, January 7.
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