Violence and Harassment: The Human Toll

The report documents 232 cases of direct attacks on individuals for their Christian faith, including harassment, threats, and physical violence. These incidents paint a grim picture of a Europe struggling to uphold its values of religious freedom.

Examples include vandalized churches, desecrated religious statues, and acts of violence that escalated to murder. In Spain, a Catholic altar server lost his life in a jihadist attack in Algeciras, while in the UK, a Christian convert from Islam survived an attempted murder, branded an “apostate” by his assailant.

Troubling Trends and Regional Insights

Certain nations stand out for their soaring rates of anti-Christian hate crimes:

– France: Nearly 1,000 cases in 2023, making it the hardest-hit country.

– United Kingdom: Over 700 incidents, ranging from physical threats to institutional discrimination.

– Germany: A shocking 105% increase, with cases rising from 135 in 2022 to 277 in 2023.

These numbers are matched by growing restrictions on religious expression in public life. Across Europe, Christians report being penalized for articulating beliefs on life, marriage, or family values. In schools, workplaces, and even public forums, fear of professional or social reprisal has led to widespread self-censorship.

Secularism or Suppression?

The report draws attention to what it calls the rise of «state-imposed secularism,» a form of governance that risks infringing on religious rights under the guise of neutrality. This extends to limitations on conscientious objection, particularly in matters like abortion or euthanasia, leaving believers without legal recourse.

“Governments are tasked with protecting rights, yet in some cases, they are becoming the oppressors,” the report warns. This phenomenon undermines Europe’s legacy of protecting individual freedoms, replacing dialogue with repression.

Broader Context: Religious Hate Crimes Across Faiths

While Christians remain a significant target, hate crimes against Jews and Muslims also persist at alarming levels. The Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) documented 9,000 antisemitic and 6,000 anti-Muslim incidents in 2023. However, the rise in anti-Christian incidents stands out for its sharp year-on-year increase, particularly in countries that have historically upheld Christian traditions.

Regina Polak, an OSCE representative, remarked: “From vandalized churches to physical assaults, Christians are under attack across the region. This is not only a threat to faith communities but to the democratic values we hold dear.”

Types of Offenses: A Breakdown

OIDAC Europe’s analysis revealed a range of anti-Christian offenses in 2023:

– Vandalism against churches: 62%, including arson attacks (10%) and desecration of sacred spaces (24%).

– Threats and harassment: 8%.

– Physical violence: 7%, often involving severe injuries or fatalities.

These attacks are not confined to specific regions but represent a pan-European crisis that crosses borders and cultures.

A Call to Protect Fundamental Rights

The rise in anti-Christian hate crimes highlights a pressing need for renewed commitment to safeguarding religious freedom in Europe. Anja Hoffmann, OIDAC Europe’s executive director, emphasized:

“These trends should serve as a wake-up call. Ensuring the right to debate philosophical and religious ideas openly, without fear of persecution, is essential for a thriving democracy. The cost of silence is too great.”

Europe’s Crossroads: A Legacy at Stake

In a continent deeply shaped by its Christian roots, the escalating hostility against its largest faith community signals a profound societal challenge. Europe now faces a pivotal moment: will it reaffirm its foundational principles of tolerance and freedom, or allow growing polarization and secularism to undermine its moral fabric?

The answer may well define the future of pluralism—not just for Christians, but for all who call Europe home.

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The event will bring together experts and leaders from various nations to explore innovative strategies for safeguarding children who face exploitation, abuse, war, and extreme poverty. In a heartfelt gesture, Pope Francis highlighted the role children themselves will play in preparing for this historic day, symbolizing the essence of empowerment and inclusion.

A Global Appeal for the Vulnerable

“Millions of children live in precarious conditions, are exploited and mistreated, and suffer the devastating consequences of conflict,” Pope Francis stated, marking the occasion of the International Day of the Rights of the Child. “This meeting is an opportunity to identify new ways to help and protect them.”

The announcement resonated deeply with those gathered, particularly the children present, who rushed to embrace the Holy Father. This visible connection underscored the Pope’s profound commitment to fostering a world where the youngest and most vulnerable are seen and valued.

Establishment of the Pontifical Committee for Children’s Rights

Coinciding with the announcement of the February summit, Pope Francis introduced the formation of the “Pontifical Committee for the World Day of Childhood”, tasked with organizing initiatives that promote children’s welfare globally. Father Enzo Fortunato, named president of the committee, praised the Pope’s unwavering focus on the future of the world’s youth.

“This is a testament to the Church’s dedication to protecting the smallest among us,” Father Fortunato remarked. “It is a call to action, not just for Catholics, but for humanity as a whole.”

The committee will work closely with the Community of Sant’Egidio, Auxilium, and other organizations to ensure the success of this event and future initiatives, including the “World Day of Childhood” slated for September 2026.

A Historical Perspective on Children’s Rights

The February summit aligns with a long history of advocacy for children. The International Day of the Rights of the Child commemorates the adoption of the 1989 United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, a landmark document rooted in principles first articulated in the 1924 Geneva Declaration on the Rights of the Child.

For over three decades, these frameworks have underscored the global responsibility to ensure children’s access to safety, education, and dignity. The Vatican’s upcoming meeting reaffirms this commitment while seeking fresh solutions to contemporary challenges.

Children at the Heart of Change

The Pope’s focus on involving children in the preparation of the summit is emblematic of his belief in their agency. The young participants at the announcement represented diverse backgrounds, including Catholic schools in Rome, Indonesia’s community, and peace schools run by Sant’Egidio. Their enthusiastic response reflected the universal relevance of this mission.

In the words of Father Fortunato: “The world’s smallest voices often carry the greatest truths. Through this initiative, Pope Francis reminds us to listen and act.”

A Message of Hope and Urgency

As wars rage and inequalities deepen, the Vatican’s call for global collaboration on children’s rights serves as a clarion reminder of shared human responsibility. February’s summit will not only spotlight the challenges but inspire concrete actions, urging leaders to prioritize the well-being of the youngest members of society.

By placing children at the heart of its mission, the Church is extending an invitation to the world: to protect, to empower, and to love without bounds. As the Pope concluded his announcement, the children in attendance offered the simplest yet most profound response: “Thank you.”

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The Pope expressed deep compassion for the victims and reaffirmed the Holy See’s commitment to advocating for the release of those still held captive in Gaza. According to reports, 63 individuals remain detained by Hamas.

A Gesture of Global Solidarity

The hour-long meeting underscored the Vatican’s role as a voice for peace and reconciliation in the Middle East. Participants described the encounter as both heartfelt and impactful. “We didn’t come in vain,” one attendee remarked, highlighting their hope that Pope Francis’s moral authority might influence efforts to secure the release of the remaining hostages.

Gaya Kalderon, a 22-year-old who attended the meeting, voiced her anguish over her father’s continued captivity. “Our life is a living hell; we have no life anymore,” she said, capturing the collective despair of families torn apart by violence.

Condemning Crimes Against Humanity

In a press conference following the audience, the Israeli delegation condemned the kidnappings as “an absolute crime against humanity.” They called for international intervention and swift action to bring the remaining hostages home, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.

This meeting follows Pope Francis’s ongoing engagement with both Israeli and Palestinian families affected by the conflict. Earlier this year, on April 8, he met with five Israeli families whose relatives had been abducted, signaling his unwavering dedication to dialogue and justice.

A Pontiff’s Call for Ceasefire and Compassion

Pope Francis has consistently called for peace in the region. In a message earlier this month, he urged an immediate ceasefire across all fronts, including Lebanon, and reiterated the need for the swift release of all hostages held in Gaza.

During his general audience in St. Peter’s Square last Wednesday, the Pope extended his prayers to the 150 Palestinian civilians who had recently lost their lives, highlighting the devastating toll of the conflict on all sides.

Building Bridges Amid Crisis

This meeting reflects the Vatican’s enduring role as a bridge-builder in some of the world’s most entrenched conflicts. By offering a platform for those affected by violence, Pope Francis amplifies calls for justice and peace, transcending political divides.

As families await news of their loved ones, the hope remains that global leaders and humanitarian advocates will heed the Pope’s call: to prioritize the sanctity of human life, to end cycles of violence, and to restore dignity to those who continue to suffer in silence.

This moment in the Apostolic Palace, marked by shared grief and quiet determination, serves as a reminder that even amid profound despair, the pursuit of peace is not just a dream but a moral imperative.

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Celebration of Youthful Holiness

The canonizations will spotlight the vitality of youth within the Church. Carlo Acutis, often called the «influencer of holiness,» will be canonized during the “Teenagers’ Jubilee” from April 25 to 27. Known for his deep love of the Eucharist and expertise in computer science, the young Italian left a legacy of faith expressed in modern ways.

Pier Giorgio Frassati, a Turin-born student, alpinist, and advocate for the poor, will follow during the “Youth Jubilee” from July 28 to August 3. Often referred to as the «man of the Beatitudes,» Frassati lived a life rooted in prayer, service, and joy—a testament to faith as an adventure. His canonization comes a century after his death, continuing to inspire generations to live with courage and compassion.

A Day for the Children of the World

The announcement coincided with the International Day for the Rights of the Child, where Pope Francis also introduced a major upcoming event: the “World Meeting on Children’s Rights”. Scheduled for February 3 in Vatican City, the gathering will bring together experts, activists, and global leaders to address the plight of children suffering from war, exploitation, and neglect.

In a touching moment during the audience, children in yellow caps, representing various Catholic schools and peace organizations, rushed to greet the Pope on the basilica’s steps. Their joyful interaction underscored the urgency of protecting young lives. «The future of the world lies with the smallest among us,» the Pope remarked, highlighting the Church’s ongoing commitment to safeguarding the dignity of every child.

Holiness in Action: The Lives of Acutis and Frassati

Carlo Acutis, who passed away in 2006 at just 15, gained widespread recognition for creating an online catalog of Eucharistic miracles. His bishop in Assisi, Domenico Sorrentino, called him “a ray of light for young people” and noted the providential timing of his canonization during the Jubilee, which celebrates renewal and hope.

Pier Giorgio Frassati, who died at 24 in 1925, left a legacy of service that resonated deeply even in his short life. A member of Catholic Action and other faith-based groups, he balanced rigorous spiritual devotion with an adventurous spirit. Saint John Paul II, who beatified him in 1990, described him as a model for those striving to integrate faith and action.

Resonating with the Modern World

The Church views these two saints as bridges to contemporary youth. Acutis and Frassati exemplify a faith that is not confined to the past but thrives in digital innovation and social responsibility. Their canonizations aim to inspire young Catholics to see holiness as accessible and relevant.

In a statement, Catholic Action Italy celebrated Frassati’s legacy, emphasizing his ability to counter apathy with a life of dynamic engagement. “His rule of life, ‘to get involved,’ is a call against indifference—a way to connect with the world through faith and action,” the group wrote.

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***

Ladies and Gentlemen,
Dear Brothers and Sisters, good morning!

I am pleased to meet you during this, your twelfth Colloquium. As we all know, this long-standing form of cooperation has been most gratifying for all of us, since it fosters a culture of dialogue, something that I consider of critical importance and which I follow closely.

As you know, I plan to elevate the Archbishop of Tehran-Ispahan – a great friar – to the College of Cardinals. This decision expresses my closeness and concern for the Church in Iran, and in turn honours the entire country.

The life of the Catholic Church in Iran, a “little flock”, is very close to my heart. The Church is not against the government; to say otherwise is a lie. I am aware of its situation and the challenges it faces as it perseveres in bearing witness to Christ and contributing, quietly but significantly, to the good of society as a whole, while rejecting all religious, ethnic or political discrimination.

I am particularly appreciative of the theme you have chosen for this Colloquium: “The Education of Young People, particularly in the Family: A Challenge for Christians and Muslims”. What a beautiful topic! The family, the cradle of life, is the primordial place of education. It is in the family that we take our first steps and learn to listen to others, to acknowledge and respect them, to help them and to live with one another in harmony. A common element of our different religious traditions is the contribution made by the elderly to the education of the young. This is something I hold very close to my heart; grandparents, by their wisdom, are a crucial aid in the religious education of their grandchildren, and serve as a vital link in family relationships over the generations (cf. Post-Synodal Apostolic Exhortation Christus Vivit, 262). Honouring our grandparents is so important. Their religiosity, communicated informally by the witness of their lives, is invaluable for the growth of young people. I will never forget that my own grandmother was the one who taught me to pray.

One educational challenge common to both Christians and Muslims is posed by the growing, complex reality of marriages involving disparity of cult. It is easy to see that such family settings represent a privileged place for interreligious dialogue (cf. Post-Synodal Apostolic Exhortation Amoris Laetitia, 248). And that is what we must pursue.

The weakening of faith and religious practice in some societies has a direct impact on the family. We know what great challenges the family faces in a world that is changing rapidly and not always in the right direction. Consequently, in order to fulfil better its educational mission, the family needs the full support of everyone, including the state, the school, its own religious community and other institutions.

Some of the many tasks of the family are those of educating and “being at home” beyond the walls of its own house. Dialogue between believers of different religions does just that; it enables us to step out of our own familiar patterns of thinking and acting, and to be open to encounter within the greater human family. But for dialogue to be fruitful, it must meet several conditions: it must be open, it must be sincere, it must be respectful, it must be friendly and it must be concrete. This is what makes dialogue successful. This approach will make us credible in the eyes of our own community and before our interlocutors and their communities, while constantly reminding us that we are accountable to God for all that we think, for all that we say and for all that we do.

Finally, the education of the younger generation takes place through fraternal cooperation in the search for God. In this quest, we must never tire of speaking and working for the dignity and rights of every person, every community and every people. We must always defend their rights. Indeed, freedom of conscience and religion is the cornerstone of the entire edifice of human rights. Nor is freedom of religion limited to the expression of worship; it also entails complete freedom in the matter of one’s own beliefs and religious practice (cf. Second Vatican Ecumenical Council, Declaration Dignitatis Humanae, 3-4).

Brothers and sisters, our world is divided and rent by hatred, hostility, wars and the threat of a nuclear conflict. We can read the latest threat in today’s newspapers. This situation prompts us, as believers in the God of Peace, to pray and work for dialogue, reconciliation, peace, security and the integral development of all humanity. We profess our faith in the all-powerful God of love. The commitment to peace that we can demonstrate together will make us credible in the eyes of the world and above all to future generations.

Dear brothers and sisters, thank you for coming! May the Most High keep and bless us, our communities and the whole world, and accompany you at every step of your journey of dialogue.

Let us now take a brief moment in silence as we pray asking God to bless us all. Let us be silent.

May God bless us all. Amen.

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***

Dear brothers and sisters, good morning!

In the last three catecheses, we talked about the sanctifying work of the Holy Spirit which is implemented in the sacraments, in prayer and by following the example of the Mother of God. But let us listen to what a famous text from Vatican II says: “It is not only through the sacraments and the ministries of the Church that the Holy Spirit sanctifies and leads the people of God and enriches it with virtues, but, ‘allotting his gifts to everyone according as He wills’” (cf. 1 Cor 12:11) (Lumen gentium, 12). We too have personal gifts that the Spirit gives to each one of us.

Therefore, the moment has arrived to talk also about this second way the Holy Spirit works, which is charismatic action. Two elements contribute to defining what charism is. A somewhat difficult word, I will explain it. First, the charism is the gift given “for the common good” (1 Cor 12:7), to be useful to everyone. It is not, in other words, destined principally and ordinarily for the sanctification of the person, but for the “service” of the community (cf. 1 Pt 4:10). This is the first aspect. Secondly, the charism is the gift given “to one”, or “to some” in particular, not to everyone in the same way, and this is what distinguishes it from sanctifying grace, from the theological virtues and from the sacraments, which instead are the same and common to all. The charism is given to a specific person or community. It is a gift that God gives you.

The Council explains this too. The Holy Spirit, it says, “distributes special graces among the faithful of every rank. By these gifts He makes them fit and ready to undertake the various tasks and offices which contribute toward the renewal and building up of the Church, according to the words of the Apostle: ‘The manifestation of the Spirit is given to everyone for profit’” (1 Cor 12:7).

The charisms are the “jewels” or the ornaments that the Holy Spirit distributes to make the Bride of Christ more beautiful. One can thus understand why the Conciliar text ends with the following exhortation: “These charisms, whether they be the more outstanding or the more simple and widely diffused, are to be received with thanksgiving and consolation for they are perfectly suited to and useful for the needs of the Church” (LG 12).

Pope Benedict XVI affirmed: “Anyone who considers the history of the post-conciliar era can recognize the process of true renewal, which often took unexpected forms in living movements and made almost tangible the inexhaustible vitality of the holy Church”. And this is the charism given to a group, through a person.

We must rediscover the charisms, because this ensures that the promotion of the laity, and of women in particular, is understood not only as an institutional and sociological fact, but also in its biblical and spiritual dimension. Indeed, the laity are not the least, no, they laity are not a form of external collaborator or auxiliary troops of the clergy, no! They have their own charisms and gifts with which to contribute to the mission of the Church.

Let us add another thing: when we talk about the charisms, we must immediately dispel a misunderstanding: that of identifying them with spectacular or extraordinary gifts and capabilities; instead, they are ordinary gifts – each one of us has his or her own charism – that assume extraordinary value if inspired by the Holy Spirit and embodied with love in situations of life. Such an interpretation of the charism is important, because many Christians, when they hear talk of charisms, experience sadness or disappointment, as they are convinced that they do not possess any, and feel they are excluded or second-class Christians. No, they are not second-class Christians, no, each person has his or her own personal, and also community charism. Saint Augustine responded to these in his time with a very eloquent comparison: ‘If you love,’ he told his people, “If you love, it is not nothing that you have: if you love unity, whoever has anything in that unity has it also for you. In the body, the eye alone sees; but is it for itself alone that the eye sees? It sees both for the hand and the foot, and for all the other members” [St. Augustine,  Tractates on the Gospel of John, 32,8.]

This reveals the secret of why charity is defined by the Apostle as “a still more excellent way” (1 Cor 12, 31): it makes me love the Church, or the community in which I live and, in unity, all charisms, not just some, are “mine”, just as “my” charisms, little though they may seem, belong to all and are for the good of all. Charity multiplies charisms; it makes the charism of one, of one individual person, the charism of all. Thank you!

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Attending the plenary as a special guest was Bishop Stepan Sus, auxiliary and curial bishop to the head of the Ukrainian Greek-Catholic Metropolitan of Kyiv-Halych, who shared his testimony of the Church in Ukraine in the midst of war. Bishop Roy E. Campbell, auxiliary bishop of Washington and president of The National Black Catholic Congress (NBCC) gave a brief presentation to the body on the history, mission and programs of the NBCC. And as the universal Catholic Church prepares to celebrate the Jubilee Year 2025, Sister Maria Juan Anderson, a Religious Sister of Mercy of Alma, Michigan who currently serves as the coordinator for the Bishops’ Office for United States Visitors to the Vatican, shared information about her office and the services they provide to pilgrims visiting Rome. Mr. Patrick Kelly, Supreme Knight of the Knights of Columbus, provided an update on the Order’s Cor initiative.

The bishops received a report on the 2021-2024 Synod of Bishops that concluded in Rome last month; a report on the Eucharistic revival initiative and the National Eucharistic Congress held this summer; and an update on the interim implementation of Antiquum Ministerium (on the ministry of the catechist). An update was also given on the Catholic Campaign for Human Development (CCHD) as a follow up to the discussion the bishops had at their June plenary on the best way that the CCHD could continue the vital work of fighting poverty. The bishops’ migration committee chairman gave an update on the work of the committee, which aims to help reshape the national narrative on migration to be more welcoming and responsive to the needs of migrants and to help the faithful better understand Catholic teaching on migration. A presentation was also given on the resources available for diocesan and parish leaders in applying the Vatican’s declaration, Dignitas Infinita (on human dignity) to the specific cultural context of the United States; this effort is an ongoing collaboration among several committees of the USCCB.

Exemplifying synodality, the bishops engaged in a table discussion during the public session on the pastoral implementation of integral ecology and Laudato si’. Specifically, they were provided with prompts to discuss how best to mark the tenth anniversary of Laudato si’. The table discussions were enhanced by the adjustment to bishops’ seating made during the November 2022 plenary to more naturally accommodate fraternal dialogue. While a summary of the discussions was not provided publicly during the plenary, the reports from each bishop group will be used to guide the work of Conference committees.

The bishops also approved the Committee on Laity, Marriage, Family Life and Youth to move forward with the drafting of a document to guide lay ecclesial ministry, which is meant to be a follow-up to the bishops’ 2005 document, Coworkers in the Vineyard of the Lord; the action item was passed with 223 votes in favor, 9 votes against, and 6 abstentions. The bishops also voted to pass the USCCB’s 2025 budget (226 votes in favor, 3 votes against, and 4 abstentions), and on the USCCB’s 2025-2028 Mission Directive, which will guide the work of the Conference staff over the next three years (225 votes in favor, 7 votes against, and 2 abstentions).

During their meeting, the bishops voted for a new treasurer and new chairmen of five standing committees. All six elected bishops will serve for one year as the chairman-elect before beginning a three-year term that begins at the conclusion of the bishops’ 2025 Plenary Assembly. They also held a consultation on advancing the causes for beatification and canonization for Sister Annella Zervas, a professed religious of the Order of Saint Benedict, and of the Servant of God Gertrude Agnes Barber, a lay woman, and by voice vote, they affirmed the advancement of both causes at the local levels.

The bishops discussed and voted on three action items related to liturgical texts, presented by the USCCB’s Committee on Divine Worship:

• The bishops voted 216 votes in favor, 4 votes against, and 3 abstentions to approve the revised New American Bible for liturgical use. The approval of this requires a two-thirds vote of the Latin Church members, with subsequent confirmatio from the Vatican’s Dicastery for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments.
• The bishops voted 220 in favor, 2 votes against, and 1 abstention to approve the International Commission on English in the Liturgy (ICEL) Gray Book of The Order of Crowning of an Image of the Blessed Virgin Mary. The approval of this requires a two-thirds vote of the Latin Church members, with subsequent confirmatio by the Vatican’s Dicastery for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments.
• The bishops voted 213 in favor, 1 vote against, and 9 abstentions to approve the Liturgia de las Horas: Textos propios y adaptaciones para las diócesis de los Estados Unidos de América. The approval of this requires a two-thirds vote of the Latin Church members, with subsequent recognitio by the Vatican’s Dicastery for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments.

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Abuse Report Sparks Nationwide Reckoning

The turning point came in September 2023, when the University of Zurich published a landmark study exposing over 1,000 cases of sexual abuse within the Swiss Catholic Church. Spanning several decades, the report shocked the nation, with researchers warning that these cases were likely «only the tip of the iceberg.»

Bishop Felix Gmür, President of the Swiss Bishops’ Conference and Bishop of Basel, acknowledged the devastating impact of the revelations. «The high number of departures was predictable following the publication of the pilot study on sexual abuse within the Church,» he said, reflecting on the loss of trust among the faithful.

A Crisis Beyond Scandal

While the abuse scandal looms large, Gmür pointed to deeper, systemic challenges facing the Church. «The environment of the Catholic Church is undergoing rapid changes—or even dissolving entirely,» he remarked. «Faith is no longer a defining element in daily life for many, and its transmission from one generation to the next has dwindled.»

This erosion of faith has been a long-standing issue, exacerbated by a broader societal shift toward secularism. The Church, once a cornerstone of Swiss cultural and spiritual life, now struggles to maintain relevance in an increasingly pluralistic and individualistic society.

Efforts to Rebuild Trust Fall Short

Despite initiatives aimed at addressing the abuse crisis and reconnecting with disillusioned Catholics, the outlook remains bleak. Gmür admitted that reversing the trend seems nearly impossible. «The Church is shrinking, and unfortunately, this is a trend that cannot be stopped,» he said with somber candor.

Efforts to rebuild trust include transparency measures, listening forums for victims, and greater accountability within ecclesiastical structures. However, these steps have yet to counteract the deep disillusionment and alienation felt by many Swiss Catholics.

Broader Implications for the Global Church

The crisis in Switzerland mirrors challenges faced by the Catholic Church worldwide. In many regions, revelations of abuse have coincided with cultural shifts that weaken traditional religious institutions. The Swiss case highlights the urgency of addressing both the scars of the past and the need for a renewed vision of faith that resonates with contemporary society.

What Lies Ahead?

As the Swiss Catholic Church navigates this period of upheaval, its leaders face a daunting question: how to reconcile the weight of historical failures with the need to remain a meaningful presence in people’s lives. The answer may require not only institutional reform but also a profound reimagining of what it means to be a Church in the 21st century.

For now, the exodus continues, leaving a once-stalwart institution grappling with an uncertain future.

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The event, scheduled for December 7 at 6:30 PM, will be led by Cardinal Fernando Vérgez Alzaga and Sister Raffaella Petrini, who serve as the President and Secretary General of the Vatican City Governatorate. With a rich array of traditions and artistic marvels, this year’s festivities promise to be a testament to the spirit of Christmas as both a sacred and universal celebration.  

Grado’s Lagoon-Inspired Nativity Scene: A Testament to Love and Labor

The centerpiece of this year’s St. Peter’s Square Nativity scene hails from Grado, a lagoon town in the Diocese of Gorizia. Dubbed the «Community Nativity,» this intricate display embodies themes of love, labor, and tradition, showcasing scenes from early 20th-century life in Grado’s unique lagoon environment.

The scene is set within a traditional casone—a reed structure historically used by local fishermen—and features the Holy Family surrounded by lifelike statues crafted from lagoon clay by Lorenzo and Francesca Boemo, a father-daughter artisan duo. The tableau extends beyond the Nativity to include details like flat-bottomed batele boats floating in an artificial lagoon, a grandmother watching her grandchildren play on a sandy shore, and women participating in the fishing trade.

Under the guidance of Antonio Boemo and architect Andrea de Walderstein, the project involved over 40 volunteers, blending professional expertise and community spirit. The display also highlights Grado’s connection to its historic roots as a «mother of Venice» and its enduring ties to the Church through landmarks like the Basilica of Santa Eufemia.

The Bethlehem Nativity: Crafting Hope from Conflict

Adding an international dimension, the Paul VI Hall will host the «Bethlehem Nativity 2024,» a symbolic reminder of the Holy Land’s significance. Designed by Bethlehem-based artists Johny Andonia and Faten Nastas Mitwasi, this installation features a three-meter-tall circular structure adorned with handcrafted representations of the Nativity.

Materials like olive wood, nacre, and stone, sourced from the region, reflect the craftsmanship of Bethlehem’s artisans, while the installation’s collaboration with local Christian institutions underscores its message of peace and resilience amid ongoing conflict.

Ledro’s Eco-Conscious Christmas Tree

From the Alpine forests of Ledro in Trentino comes the majestic 29-meter Christmas tree that will light up St. Peter’s Square. This sustainably sourced spruce symbolizes the Vatican’s commitment to environmental stewardship. Certified by the PEFC for responsible forest management, its selection ensures the preservation of local biodiversity and the natural renewal of the forest.

The tree’s decorations and lighting, provided by local artists and craftspeople, aim to evoke both the grandeur of nature and the simplicity of the Christmas message.

A Celebration of Faith and Community

The day’s events also include an audience with Pope Francis, during which delegations from Grado and Ledro, along with representatives from the Palestinian Embassy to the Holy See, will formally present their gifts. These delegations include prominent figures such as Monsignor Carlo Roberto Redaelli, Bishop of Gorizia, and Monsignor Lauro Tisi, Bishop of Trento, as well as local leaders and community groups who contributed to the projects.

A Season of Reflection and Renewal

As the Nativity and Christmas tree remain on display until January 12, 2025, they invite pilgrims and visitors to reflect on the enduring message of Christmas: love, unity, and hope. Whether through the artistic heritage of Grado, the resilience of Bethlehem, or the environmental consciousness of Ledro, this year’s celebration stands as a powerful reminder of the Church’s role in connecting cultures and fostering a global community of faith.

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Highlights of the exhibit include the Magdala Stone, the Sea of Galilee Boat, often referred to as the «Jesus Boat,” as well as many never-before-toured artifacts.

“It’s a profound honor to host the Dead Sea Scrolls at the Reagan Library on the 75th anniversary of the discovery,” said David Trulio, President & CEO of the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation & Institute. “The Dead Sea Scrolls are foundational to the development of the great monotheistic faiths: Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. President Reagan was deeply shaped by his faith, and we are proud to bring these ancient treasures to the public.”

The Dead Sea Scrolls, believed to date back to around 250 BCE to 68 CE and discovered between 1947 and 1956 in caves near the Dead Sea, are a collection of ancient Jewish manuscripts that have impacted the world’s understanding of history, religion and culture. Many of the scrolls in this rotating exhibit have never been seen outside Israel. Of the first fragments to be displayed are one sheet of the Great Psalms Scroll from Cave 11, dating back to the 1^st century CE and written in square Hebrew script, still in use to this day. The exhibit will feature around 200 artifacts from Israel’s National Treasures of the Israel Antiquities Authority, including:

• The Magdala Stone, which dates to the Second Temple Period, features intricate carvings of the Temple. These carvings provide insights into the role of synagogues as sacred spaces prior to the Temple’s destruction and showcase the earliest known synagogue images of the Temple Menorah.
• The Sea of Galilee Boat, often referred to as the «Jesus Boat,» a 1st-century CE fishing boat discovered in 1986 along the northwest shore of the Sea of Galilee. Unearthed during a severe drought, the reconstruction measures 27 feet in length and 7.5 feet in width and includes wood from the original vessel.
• The Psalm Scroll, the most substantial and well-preserved manuscript of Psalms of the thirty-six discovered in the Qumran caves. The Psalm Scroll is a rare find, as it contains several Psalms not found in the Hebrew Bible. These include two on display, focusing on the greatness of King David. The first focuses on his wisdom, attributing to him the writing of Psalms. The second, told in first person, describes the manner in which David was chosen and anointed as the monarch of Israel.
• Ossuaries, small stone receptacles used for secondary burial. They represent burial practices unique to the Second Temple Jewish population, bearing decorative reliefs and inscriptions. These ossuaries teach us about early Jewish beliefs regarding the afterlife, as well as the important social structure given to family life and death.
• Objects from Masada, a natural fortress in the Judean Desert overlooking the Dead Sea, a key site in the struggle between Jewish rebels and the Roman Empire almost two thousand years ago. Items on display include Aramaic, Hebrew and Latin ostraca—small potsherds bearing writing,  botanical remains such as pomegranate peels, walnut shells and olive pits; and imported textiles.
• Tyrian shekels, minted in Tyre, were the only coin accepted as the annual Temple tax, mentioned in the New Testament, and contributed by males above 20 years old.

This limited-time exhibit is almost two years in the making, curated by Dr. Risa Levitt, Dr. Orit Shamir, Dr. Joe Uziel, and Navit Popovich-Geller. The show is expected to draw visitors from all over the United States, created by the Israel Antiquities Authority from the collections of the National Treasures. «The Israel Antiquities Authority is proud to be part of such an important exhibition» says Eli Escusido, Director of the Israel Antiquities Authority. The exhibit is produced by West Wall Exhibitions and RRPFI.

«We are honored that the Dead Sea Scrolls exhibit’s first stop is at the Reagan Library,” says James Sanna, President and CEO of West Wall Exhibitions. “The Library is known for hosting historically significant exhibitions and this one, offering visitors a rare glimpse into the ancient world, continues that tradition. We know guests will be inspired by the scrolls and the other notable artifacts on display.»

For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit www.ReaganLibrary.com/DeadSeaScrolls.

About the Reagan Foundation and Institute 

The Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute (RRPFI) is the sole nonprofit organization created by President Reagan charged with advancing his legacy and principles – individual liberty, economic opportunity, freedom and democracy, peace through strength, and national pride.

A globally recognized nonpartisan organization based in Simi Valley, CA, with a leading policy institute in Washington, DC, RRPFI delivers impactful public affairs programming, policy convenings and projects of national and international significance, and distinctive educational initiatives.  In addition, RRPFI sustains the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum, the largest and most visited presidential library, which routinely hosts major special exhibitions.

An hour from Los Angeles International Airport, RRPFI’s Simi Valley campus sits on 400 acres, serves as the final resting place of America’s 40th President and former First Lady Nancy Reagan, displays a chunk of the Berlin Wall, and houses the plane President Reagan flew as Air Force One to 26 countries.  Onsite are the Reagan Center for Public Affairs, Presidential Learning Center, Air Force One Pavilion, and the Reagan Leadership Academy.  More information is available at www.reaganfoundation.org.

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