Thousands pack St. Peter's Square to see the recently inaugurated Vatican Christmas tree and nativity scene just days before Christmas.
And like many Sundays before, Pope Francis greets a roaring crowd and prays for peace on earth.
(SOUNDBITE) (Italian) POPE FRANCIS, SAYING:
"We entrust ourselves to the intercession of our Blessed Mother and St. Joseph, to live a truly Christian Christmas, free from all worldliness, ready to receive the Lord, our God with us."
As usual, Pope Francis asked for everyone's prayers.
(SOUNDBITE) (Italian) POPE FRANCIS, SAYING:
"I wish you all a good Sunday and a Christmas of hope, with the doors open to the Lord. A Christmas of joy and fraternity. Please do not forget to pray for me! I wish you a good lunch, Goodbye!"
The Vatican's 25-and-a-half-meter-tall tree came from the majestic Sila mountains of the Southern Calabria region while the crib figures came from the town of Verona.
