Benedict XVI offers thanks for the gift of the Christmas Tree, a sign of Christmas spirituality

Benedict XVI thanked the German-speaking pilgrims of Lower Austria, and the governor of the region, for the gift of the Christmas tree which has been placed in St Peter's Square. In his address, the Holy Father stressed the importance of Christmas traditions, which are renewed each year and offer believers the opportunity to spiritually prepare for the Birth of the Savior.

The eyes of the Christian world are on Jesus of Nazareth, the God who comes, inviting men and women to renew their lives and to base them on the presence of God in the world. Pope Benedict noted how the Christmas spirit will spread in the Apostolic Palace, thanks to the gift of the tree.