Pope lights St. Peter's Nativity scene

VATICAN CITY, Dec. 24 (UPI) -- Pope Benedict XVI began his eighth Christmas since his election by participating in unveiling the Nativity scene in Vatican City's St. Peter's Square.

The Pope illuminated the "Light of Peace" on this year's display from the window of his apartment, after it was revealed to the public Monday.

The ceremony will be followed by his celebration of the annual Christmas Eve mass in St. Peter's Basilica, and Christmas Day he will deliver his Christmas message and offer the "Urbi et Orbi" ("To the City of Rome and to the World") blessing from St. Peter's central balcony, the Italian news agency ANSA reported Monday.