Pope Francis Inaugurates Controversial Nativity Scene Featuring Palestinian Symbolism

On December 7, 2024, Pope Francis attended the inauguration of a seasonal nativity scene at the Vatican, presented by Palestinian officials, which featured a baby Jesus lying on a keffiyeh, the traditional Palestinian scarf. The symbolic gesture, placed in the Paul VI Hall, is part of a larger nativity exhibit titled “Nativity of Bethlehem 2024,” designed by Palestinian artists Johny Andonia and Faten Nastas Mitwasi from Bethlehem.

During the event, a wheelchair-bound Pope Francis expressed deep concerns about the suffering caused by war, particularly in Bethlehem and other conflict zones, calling for an end to violence and the arms trade. He lamented the devastating effects of ongoing conflicts, urging peace for all believers.

In addition to the nativity scene, Pope Francis was presented with a “Star of Bethlehem” plaque by two Palestinian children. The plaque featured a message of peace and goodwill in Arabic and Latin.

The nativity scene and plaque were organized by the Higher Presidential Committee for Church Affairs in Palestine, the Palestinian embassy to the Vatican, and local institutions from Bethlehem. These efforts were supported by PLO Executive Committee member Ramzi Khouri, who conveyed appreciation for Pope Francis' consistent support for the Palestinian cause and his advocacy for ending the war in Gaza.

This move by the Vatican comes amid Pope Francis’ outspoken stance on the ongoing Israel-Gaza conflict. His previous comments regarding the potential classification of Israel's military actions as genocide have sparked controversy.

Despite the diplomatic tension, Pope Francis continues advocating for the release of hostages taken by Hamas during the October 2023 attacks. However, his statements, including his letter to Middle Eastern Catholics, have drawn criticism for their omission of direct references to Hamas' atrocities.

The nativity scene and its Palestinian symbolism add a further layer of complexity to the Vatican's position on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, echoing past controversies over the identity of Jesus and his association with Palestinian heritage.