Interview with Most Reverend Monsignor Ivo Muser, Bishop of Bolzano-Bressanone

The Christmas Tree as “Ambassador” of the Territory

An “ambassador” of its homeland, of its culture and of the faith of the people of Lagundo and the Val d’Ultimo—and of the entire Diocese of Bolzano-Bressanone. This is what the Christmas tree, the spruce that this year is being gifted to Pope Leo XIV to be displayed in St. Peter’s Square, represents. It is a tradition that has been renewed for years, and the felling of the tree is not an act of offense toward nature, but rather as careful forest management where the selective removal of a tree ensures the health and growth of the forest. In this interview with [www.vaticanstate.va](http://www.vaticanstate.va), Bishop Ivo Muser of Bolzano-Bressanone reflects on its meaning.

What is the deeper significance of the gift of the Christmas tree?

First of all, it is a tangible sign of communion with the Holy Father and the Universal Church. The Val d’Ultimo and the Municipality of Lagundo, together with the Province of Bolzano and our Diocese of Bolzano-Bressanone, express through this gift their belonging to a greater body, reaffirming their spiritual and emotional bond with the Successor of Peter. It is a way of saying: “We are with you, Pope Leo; we wish to pray with you and share the joy of Christmas with you.” The tree thus becomes an “ambassador” of our territory, our culture, and our faith—a way of bringing a small piece of our local Church into the heart of the universal Church.

How does this gesture connect with the Christian message of Christmas?

Although the Christmas tree has its origins in Northern European tradition, the Church has given it a new and profound Christian meaning. Spruce trees remain evergreen even in winter, symbolizing the triumph of life over death, evoking the “Tree of Life” from the Book of Genesis. Jesus Christ is the new Adam who, through his birth, death, and resurrection, reopens for humanity the access to the Tree of Life—to eternal life itself.

How can we live Christmas in a way that is more respectful of the environment and of Creation, and recover its most authentic and spiritual meaning?

Living Christmas in a way that respects the environment and Creation is a beautiful testimony of our faith, which calls us to be stewards of the gifts we have received. God chose to enter the world in a body, in a particular place and time. Honoring this “materiality” means respecting the creation He Himself inhabited, avoiding waste and pollution. As Pope Francis often reminds us, consumerism poses a danger to the spirit. A Christmas lived in true faith gives priority to the quality of relationships rather than the quantity of gifts.

Some people wonder whether cutting down a tree contradicts respect for nature. What would you say to them?

I understand that concern, which comes from a genuine love of nature. However, cutting down a tree is not a disrespectful act but rather the outcome of careful forest management, where selective cutting is part of an active stewardship that ensures the health of the forest and regulates its growth. Moreover, in South Tyrol, reforestation is not merely a project but a well-established practice and a pillar of sustainable forestry. For every tree cut down, new ones are planted, ensuring healthy and resilient forests for future generations.

Young people play an important role in caring for Creation. How can the Church guide and inspire them on this path?

Certainly, young people not only have an important role—they are essential protagonists in the care of Creation. Their passion, desire for authenticity and concern for the future make them the most credible witnesses on this journey. The Church emphasizes their unique and irreplaceable contribution in promoting responsible choices—not stopping at “green” slogans, but embracing care for Creation as a response to God’s call. We must foster a culture of “care” over a culture of “disposal.”

What is the relationship between the local Church and the natural beauty that surrounds it?

Believing in God the Creator means rediscovering the ability to marvel at the wonders of nature. Here in South Tyrol, we are privileged to live in a blessed corner of Creation, which makes it easy to cultivate this sense of wonder. Creation deserves reverence and respect, and living in such a beautiful land is itself a gift. However, it is always necessary to remember that if we humans wish to live and survive, we must recognize certain limits to our actions and understand that we are not entitled to do everything just because we are capable of so doing.

What message would you like to share with those who will admire this tree?

I hope that wonder before Creation will also be stirred by our Christmas tree and that it will inspire reflection. We need people who are attentive, awed, and respectful—ready to embrace sustainable and modest lifestyles: not wanting everything, not just demanding and claiming, but moving away from the mentality of “more and more.” Let us abandon the obsession with constant growth and the uncontrolled increase of profit. We must rediscover moderation, wonder, gratitude, and, not least, praise for God, who takes on our human condition in the mystery of His Incarnation—of which the Nativity scene and the Christmas tree