ALBAWABA - In St. Peter's Square, the Vatican unveiled their 2024 Nativity scene, which featured Baby Jesus wearing a Palestinian keffiyeh as a sign of solidarity with the Palestinian people.
The artwork, "Bethlehem Nativity 2024," was made by Faten Nastas Metawasi and Johnny Andonia, both of whom are from Bethlehem. Pope Francis's vehement opposition to Israeli operations in Gaza, which he has denounced as potentially genocidal, is reflected in the unveiling.
A Peaceful and Unifying Message
In addition to mother-of-pearl, ceramics, and fabrics, the Baby Jesus figure was made from olive wood, a major Palestinian emblem.
Pope Francis called for an end to war and bloodshed worldwide during the unveiling, saying, "Enough of war, enough of violence!" He blasted the arms trade for making money off of murder and destruction and emphasized the Nativity scene as a reminder of those suffering in conflict areas, especially in the Holy Land.
Growing Disapproval of Israeli Practices
Given the humanitarian situation in Gaza, Pope Francis, who often stays neutral in international disputes, has stepped up his criticism of Israel. In September, he called Israeli bombings on Lebanon "morally indefensible" and denounced the killing of Palestinian children.
Citing professional perspectives on the subject, he further called on the international community to look into whether Israel's conduct in Gaza qualify as genocide under the law. The Pope's position differs significantly from the Vatican's custom of remaining neutral in international disputes.
