Pope plants ‘Palestinian tree’ at Garden of Gethsemane

Francis walks to Garden of Gethsemane, where he plants an olive tree, echoing a similar act by his predecessor Paul VI in 1964.

The tree planted by Paul has become a pilgrimage site for Christians.

Pope Francis planting a tree. (Screen capture: Vatican TV)
Pope Francis planting a tree. (Screen capture: Vatican TV)

“This tree is a symbol of peace, and we all hope that the pontiff’s visit will bring forth the fruit of peace,” Fr. José Benito Choque, a Franciscan of the Custody of the Holy Land who is responsible for the sanctuary, said according to Terrasanta.net. “The tree that the pope will plant is a gift from the churches of the Holy Land. It is a Palestinian tree.”

After planting the tree, Francis gets into his car for the short drive to Mount Zion.

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