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.