LIGHTING THE PATH TO CHRISTMAS!
St. Peter’s Square, December 9, 2016 – Official unveiling
of the Vatican Nativity Scene and lighting of Christmas Tree.
The spruce tree is a gift from the northern Italian region of Trentino
and the Nativity Scene was offered to the Vatican by the bishops
and government of Malta. It was designed by Manwel Grech
(you’ve seen my photos and videos of his team) and executed
by him and 7 teammates from Gozo, Malta.
I also posted a Facebook Live video as the ceremony was underway!
O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree!
How are thy leaves so verdant!
Not only in the summertime,
But even in winter is thy prime. O C
O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree, How are thy leaves so verdant!
O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree,
Much pleasure dost thou bring me!
For ev’ry year the Christmas tree,
Brings to us all both joy and glee.
O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree, Much pleasure dost thou bring me!
O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree,
How lovely are thy branches!
Not only green when summer’s here
But in the coldest time of year.
O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree, How lovely are thy branches!
O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree,
How sturdy God hath made thee!
Thou bidd’st us all place faithfully
Our trust in God, unchangingly!
O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree, How sturdy God hath made thee!
O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree,
Thy candles shine out brightly!
Each bough doth hold its tiny light,
That makes each toy to sparkle bright.
O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree, Thy candles shine out brightly!
Joan's Rome 