The Nativity scene created in 2004

Vatican City, Nov 21, 2008 / 03:31 pm (CNA).- This week the Vatican City government began work on the construction of a new Nativity scene that will be on display in St. Peter’s Square this Christmas.

During this past week, with the Church preparing to celebrate final holy day of the liturgical year, the solemnity of Christ the King, dozens of workers began building a curious thirteen feet tall semi-circular structure that partially surrounding the great obilesk in St. Peter’s Square.

CNA asked the Holy See’s Press Office about the theme chosen for this year’s Nativity scene. “The theme of the Nativity scene is chosen and implemented by the Vatican government, and only when the work is completed will the Holy See be informed of the theme,” Sister Giovanna Gentili, SFP, said. 

Last year the Vatican government chose the new theme of the Holy Family in Nazareth instead of in Bethlehem.  Due to the usual, semicircular aspect of the preparations, many expect the Holy See to unveil another surprise this Christmas season.

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