Every year, Pope Francis releases his own Christmas card. It doesn't have a photo of him or his family. Rather, it focuses on the birth of Christ.
This year's image is 'Virgin, Joseph and Child,â? an etching from the 17th century Italian artist, Carlo Maratti.
Mary is looking toward the heavens while angels look down. The baby Jesus appears next to her. It's a stark change from last year. This one is filled with light and optimism, while last year's was more barren.
The back of the card has the Pope's signature, along with the papal shield. It says, 'Rejoice in the day of our salvation.â? It also notes that this is the Holy Year of Mercy, which may be the reason for the Pope's more optimistic choice in art.
ATO
RR
-S
-PR:
Up: ATO
