“Quanno nascette Ninno a Betlemme, era notte, parea miezojuorno… Maje le stelle lustre e belle se vedettero accussì, la cchiù lucente jette a chiammà li Magge a l’Uriente.” Between 1744 and 1747, Alfonso Maria de’ Liguori wrote one of the most famous Neapolitan Christmas carols, now known worldwide as Tu scendi dalle stelle. The text tells the story of Jesus’ birth in Bethlehem, when, although it was night, the holy place was illuminated by a light so bright it seemed like daytime. A light symbolizing Christ as the true Light of the world.
From this timeless message of light and hope, the television program “Fatti per il Cielo”, hosted by Don Francesco Cristofaro and Mario Sei, presents a special Christmas edition on Padre Pio TV (channel 145) on December 24 at 9:30 PM and on December 25 at 8:40 AM and 3:45 PM, inviting viewers to rediscover the true meaning of Christmas: joy, beauty, peace, and family.
“Christ Jesus is the light of the world – the hosts emphasize – and to those who welcome Him, He gives the power to become children of God. Now more than ever, we need this light, this message of hope and peace. The birth of Jesus is not just a historical event; it is an invitation to rediscover the beauty of the world, the ability to love, mercy, and goodness. All those who choose hatred, selfishness, violence, or evil cannot represent the true Christmas.”
The program intertwines this spiritual message with real-life stories of courage, altruism, and friendship. Among them is the story of Vice Brigadier Pietro Scalzone, who, on a hot July day, was at the beach with his family when he saw a young girl in danger in the water. Without hesitation, he jumped in fully clothed to save her, also rescuing another girl who had already submerged. A tangible testimony of love and responsibility toward others, embodying the spirit of Christmas.
The show also highlights friendship in Jesus through the story of Gianfranco, Daria, and Danilo, who for more than 25 years have nurtured this wonderful gift through their long commitment in Catholic Action, showing how faith can be lived through deep and lasting human relationships.
Don Gesualdo De Luca will guide viewers through a simple and accessible reflection on the meaning of Christmas, emphasizing the importance of peace, caring for the sick, the imprisoned, and peoples at war, and the value of welcoming Christ into everyday life.
All the music from the Christmas tradition will be curated by Maestro Ercole Gesualdo, while prayers and meditations will be performed by voice actress MariaDea Galiano, creating an immersive and evocative atmosphere that combines spiritual reflection with joyful celebration.
In a time when the rush of the holiday season can overshadow the true meaning of Christmas, “Fatti per il Cielo” invites viewers to pause, listen, and rediscover the light of Jesus, which illuminates not only the night in Bethlehem but every corner of the lives of those who welcome His love. An opportunity to regain inner peace, the beauty of solidarity, and the value of family and community bonds, remembering that Christmas is not merely a date on the calendar, but an invitation to live with an open heart, mercy, and love for all.