Bethlehem in Rome... and Vice Versa

Continuing his custom for Christmas Eve, earlier tonight the Pope lit a candle for the intention of peace in his study window as the creche in the Piazza below was unveiled in a sunset ceremony.

In his first Christmas Message as the church's new head in Israel, the Palestinian territories and Jordan, the Latin patriarch of Jerusalem Archbishop Fouad Twal has formally announced that a papal pilgrimage to the Holy Land will take place in May.

While no precise dates were disclosed, recent reports tipping the trip for 8-15 May have received no denial from the Holy See.

PHOTOS: AFP/Getty

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