Pope Francis blesses "Bambinelli" during Angelus
(Vatican Radio) The Third Sunday of Advent is the traditional day when the children of Rome bring the Baby Jesus statues from their Nativity Scenes at home to St. Peter’s Square to be blessed by the Pope during the Sunday Angelus. The day is affectionately known as “Bambinelli Sunday.”
“Today, my first greeting goes to the children and young people of Rome who have come for the traditional blessing of the “Bambinelli ,”which has been organized by parish churches and Catholic schools,” – Pope Francis told them – “Dear children, when you pray in front of your crèche with your parents, ask the Baby Jesus to help us all to love God and neighbor. And remember to pray for me, as I remember you.”
Pope Francis returned to the children at the very end of his Angelus.
“And one thing I want to say to the children and young people: We want to hear one of your songs!” Pope Francis said, ending his appearance with the command: “Sing!”