Thousands pack St. Peter's Square to see the recently inaugurated Vatican Christmas tree and nativity scene just days before Christmas.<br/> <br />And like many Sundays before, Pope Francis greets a roaring crowd and prays for peace on earth.<br/> <br />(SOUNDBITE) (Italian) POPE FRANCIS, SAYING:<br/> <br />"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."<br/> <br />As usual, Pope Francis asked for everyone's prayers.<br/> <br />(SOUNDBITE) (Italian) POPE FRANCIS, SAYING:<br/> <br />"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!"<br/> <br />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.
