Pope Francis called for peace during the unveiling of a Nativity scene featuring Baby Jesus atop a keffiyeh in Vatican City on Saturday.
The display, crafted by Bethlehem artists Johny Andonia and Faten Nastas Mitwasi, is part of the Nativity of Bethlehem 2024 series and includes olive wood figures of the Holy Family. The keffiyeh, a traditional Middle Eastern scarf, has also become a symbol of Palestinian resistance to Israeli occupation.
Above the tableau, a glass panel bears the inscription “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill to all people” in Latin and Arabic.
During the event, Pope Francis urged the audience to remember those suffering from war in Bethlehem and beyond, stating, “Enough wars, enough violence!” He also participated in a peace mass held at the Angeli Chapel following the dedication.
The Pope has been vocal about the need for a ceasefire in the ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict and the safe release of hostages from the October 7 attacks. He has also questioned Israel’s military actions, urging investigations into whether they align with the definition of genocide.
