Angry birdsAngry birds

Balloons Vatican’s new peace symbol

Holy See adopts custom after animal rights activists protest use of doves

Colored balloons released by children fly next to a statue, at the end of the noon Angelus prayer recited by Pope Francis in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican, Sunday, Jan. 25, 2015. (photo credit: AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)
Colored balloons released by children fly next to a statue, at the end of the noon Angelus prayer recited by Pope Francis in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican, Sunday, Jan. 25, 2015. (photo credit: AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

VATICAN CITY (AP) — Dove lovers, rejoice.

Balloons, not doves, were released as a gesture of peace Sunday in St. Peter’s Square, a year after an attack by a seagull and a crow on the symbolic birds sparked protests by animal rights groups.

For many years children, flanking the pope at a window of the papal studio overlooking the square, have released a pair of doves on the last Sunday in January. The Catholic Church traditionally dedicates January to peace themes.

Last year, the feel-good practice became a public relations disaster. After the children with Pope Francis tossed a pair of doves from the window, first a seagull and then a crow swept down and attacked the doves. Their ultimate fate was unknown.

A dove which was freed by children flanking  Pope Francis is chased by a black crow and a seagull at the Vatican, Sunday, Jan. 26, 2014.  (photo credit: AP/Gregorio Borgia)
A dove which was freed by children flanking Pope Francis is chased by a black crow and a seagull at the Vatican, Sunday, Jan. 26, 2014. (photo credit: AP/Gregorio Borgia)

Most Popular
read more:
If you’d like to comment, join
The Times of Israel Community.
Join The Times of Israel Community
Commenting is available for paying members of The Times of Israel Community only. Please join our Community to comment and enjoy other Community benefits.
Please use the following structure: example@domain.com
Confirm Mail
Thank you! Now check your email
You are now a member of The Times of Israel Community! We sent you an email with a login link to . Once you're set up, you can start enjoying Community benefits and commenting.