An outpouring of warmth, faith and popular tradition surrounds the great Christmas tree placed at the center of the Courtyard of the Apostolic Palace in Castel Gandolfo. Hand-modeled terracotta figures recall the birth of Jesus. It is a Mexican nativity scene, with an essential number of characters: the Child, Mary, Joseph, the three Magi, a shepherd, and an angel. They have simple yet highly expressive forms: faces absorbed in contemplation of the mystery, all leaning toward the manger surrounded by the ox and the donkey.

The Postal and Philatelic Service of the Vatican City State has announced the new philatelic  program for 2026, for collectors and enthusiasts worldwide with a broad and well-structured proposal that brings together spirituality, history and current affairs.

As the Jubilee Year nears its conclusion, this special edition  “From the Heart of the State – The Governorate Tells Its Story” now available online, is dedicated to the Christmas message and the universal human desire for Hope.

For the year 2025, the Postal and Philatelic Service of the Directorate of Telecommunications and Information Systems of the Governorate of Vatican City State has brought together, in a single volume, all philatelic issues along with the official postmarks issued during the year.

God Draws Near and Shares Human Frailty

In places of care, God continues to make Himself present each day through the often hidden service of those who work for the good of others. This was emphasized by Cardinal Fernando Vérgez Alzaga, President Emeritus of the Governorate of Vatican City State, during the celebration of a Holy Mass in honor of the Christmas season on Saturday afternoon, 20 December, in the Church of Mary, Mother of the Family, at the Governorate.