The wooden Nativity scene in the Vatican ’s main audience hall had generated headlines when it was unveiled December 7 because of the presence of the keffiyeh, the black-and-white checkered headscarf ...
This article explores the origins of the Nativity scene, St. Francis of Assisi's role in its creation, and its cultural and political significance throughout history.
Even Pope Francis has drawn criticism for inaugurating a Vatican nativity with baby Jesus wrapped in the scarf that has become a symbol of pro-Palestine activism.