Vatican stands firm on tree tradition despite protests
In St. Peter's Square in the Vatican, a Christmas tree will again be erected, continuing a tradition initiated by St. John Paul II. Unfortunately, the 200-year-old "Green Giant" from Ledro Valley, Italy, could not be preserved. The Vatican states that the tree was selected for ecological reasons, explaining that it "was set to be cut down anyway."
The Christmas tree tradition in the Vatican began in 1982 during the pontificate of St. John Paul II. Since then, a fir or spruce tree sourced from Italy or another European country has been donated to the Vatican each year.
This year, a 95-foot tall fir from the Ledro Valley in Italy will be placed in St. Peter's Square. The 200-year-old tree quickly earned the nickname "Green Giant" among the locals.
"Anachronistic tradition"
Several ecological associations in Trentino sought to halt this plan, sending an open letter to Pope Francis. They urged him to cease what they called an "anachronistic outrage" and a "pointless sacrifice." Over 50,000 people signed the letter.
The letter reminded the Pope, known for his strong criticisms of climate crisis denial that some of his encyclicals focus on environmental protection.
"It is inconsistent to talk about fighting climate change and then perpetuate traditions like this, which require the elimination of such an ancient and symbolic tree," the letter argued.
Protests without effect
Over the weekend, residents of the Ledro Valley held a vigil at the site of the fir marked for felling.
Despite the protests and petition from ecological associations and local residents, the desired outcome was not achieved. The fir, weighing over five tons, was felled on Monday without further protests and will soon be transported to Rome.
Vatican governor: The tree would have been cut down anyway
The Vatican State Governorate announced on Tuesday that the Christmas tree's lighting ceremony will occur on 7 December.
The announcement underscored that the selection of this particular tree was not only aesthetically pleasing but also "responsible from an ecological standpoint."
The Vatican explained that "the cutting of the tree ensures the natural turnover of the forest for the coming decades." The forests in the area are managed "under the most stringent environmental, social, and economic criteria," it was noted.
The Vatican assured that the fir originates from areas designated for felling to ensure "proper forest management," meaning, as the governor highlighted, the tree would have been cut down regardless.
