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(RNS) — The appearance of a keffiyeh on a Palestinian-made nativity scene at the Vatican caused a stir. So did its sudden disappearance.

Pope Francis prays in front of a nativity scene crafted in the West Bank city of Bethlehem, as he arrives for a meeting with the donors of the fir tree set up in St. Peter's Square as a Christmas tree and those who have crafted the life-size nativity scene at the tree's feet, in the Paul VI Hall at the Vatican, Saturday, Dec. 7, 2024. (AP Photo/Andrew Medichini)

ATICAN CITY (RNS) — In the moments before Pope Francis’ arrival at the Paul VI Hall on Saturday (Dec. 7), a final addition was made to a nativity scene gifted by Palestinian artists: A keffiyeh, the black-and-white checkered scarf that has come to represent the Palestinian cause, was placed on the manger beneath the baby Jesus.

Sitting in his wheelchair, Pope Francis was led to the nativity scene where he prayed in silence, before making an impassioned speech for peace in the Middle East. “With tears in our eyes, let us raise our prayer for peace. Brothers and sisters, enough war, enough violence!” the pope said, while looking at the nativity scene.Read More