On December 24, St. Peter's Square will transform—an extravaganza of music, culture, and tradition will fill the air as the Christmas concert titled "Note del Natale – Speciale Giubileo" takes center stage. Scheduled to air on RAI1 after the evening vigil Mass and the solemn inauguration of the Jubilee by Pope Francis, this highly anticipated event brings together some of the world's most esteemed artists.
Hosting the concert is Eleonora Daniele, leading the audience through the festive atmosphere of the Holy Night. Featured performers include renowned tenor Andrea Bocelli, celebrated singer-songwriter Claudio Baglioni, and acclaimed composer Giovanni Allevi. Also performing are the voices of the Cappella Giulia choir from St. Peter’s Basilica, the talented violinist Anastasiya Petryshak, and exquisite dance by Roberto Bolle. Their collective performances aim to create not just entertainment, but a deep reflection on the season's spirit.
The concert, which marks the beginning of the Jubilee year, aims to immerse viewers across the nation and the world in the rich traditions of Christmas and the compelling rituals surrounding the Jubilee. Cardinal Mauro Gambetti, the Archpriest of the Papal Basilica of St. Peter and General Vicar for the Holy See, shares his insights, emphasizing the significance of such events:
"Le note del Natale vuole essere la continuazione della gioia che Papa Francesco dona alla Chiesa nell’apertura del Giubileo ordinario," said Father Enzo, Director of Communication at the Basilica. This sentiment underlines the concert's importance as not merely entertainment but as part of the Catholic Church's broader mission of compassion, particularly during this holy season.
Further enriching the night's spirit, viewers will experience not just music but the essence of the Jubilee Year. Father Ibrahim Faltas, the Vicar of the Custody of the Holy Land, will connect from the Nativity Grotto in Bethlehem, sharing reflections on the significance of the celebration and the historical ties it carries. This connection aims to highlight the shared humanity and message of hope inherent within the Christmas story.
Beyond its musical offerings, "Note del Natale" invites those present and watching to partake in the reflections tied to the light, joy, and good will the season fosters. The artists involved are not just entertainers; they embody the spirit of the community, sharing the message of love and hope consistent with the core tenets of Christmas.
While the concert's live transmission marks its main event feature, it also serves as a continuum, interweaving themes of joy and reflection characteristic of the Jubilee. The various performances will metaphorically transport the audience toward the "Porta Santa,” the Holy Door signifying hope and new beginnings at St. Peter's Basilica. This metaphorical approach is echoed by the phrase, "Un cammino che si fa metafora di avvicinamento alla Porta Santa," aiming to draw all who participate closer to the warmth and love of the season.
With the stage set for this musical celebration, it promises to deliver not only entertainment but also deep-rooted messages of faith and community resilience. Engaging performances from world-renowned artists will create lasting memories and highlight the importance of unity during Christmas. The blend of solemnity from the Jubilee and the joyous celebration of Christmas offers everyone—whether attending the concert live or tuning in from home—a moment of hope and reflection.
Promoting inclusive values, the concert brings to the forefront the Church's role as a mother—merciful and welcoming to all, especially to the less fortunate. It's a time for focusing on humanity, evoking the compassionate essence of the Church and encouraging all to embrace the spirit of giving and togetherness.
St. Peter's Square will undoubtedly witness this harmonious blend of music, reverence, and community spirit, echoing the global call for peace and unity during this festive season. Viewers and attendees alike will be invited to take part not just in music but also in the celebration of life, love, and the continuous miracle of faith. Such moments remind us all of our shared humanity and the power of music as a bridge bringing us closer to one another and to the divine.
