VATICAN CITY – On December 25, 2023, Pope Leo XIV delivered his inaugural Christmas Day message, calling on the faithful to reject indifference towards those affected by conflict and poverty. Speaking to approximately 26,000 people gathered in St. Peter’s Square, the Pope highlighted the plight of individuals in Gaza, Yemen, and migrants seeking better lives across the Mediterranean and American continents.
During the traditional “Urbi et Orbi” address, which translates to “To the City and to the World,” the Pope urged people to act with humility and responsibility. As the rain subsided, he made his way through the square in the popemobile, receiving warm cheers as he greeted the crowd in multiple languages, including his native English and Spanish, reflecting his roots in Peru.
“If we truly enter into the suffering of others and stand in solidarity with the weak and the oppressed, then the world will change,” he stated. The first U.S. pontiff in history emphasized the need for “justice, peace and stability” in regions such as Lebanon, the Palestinian territories, and Syria, while also offering prayers for the tormented people of Ukraine.
Addressing Global Crises and Human Suffering
Pope Leo XIV’s message extended to various global issues, including the challenges faced by those in Sudan, South Sudan, Mali, Burkina Faso, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. He stressed the importance of dialogue to overcome numerous challenges present in Latin America and called for reconciliation in Myanmar.
The Pope’s remarks resonated with the crowd, particularly when he referenced the hardships faced by individuals losing their jobs or searching for work. He expressed solidarity with young people, underpaid workers, and those incarcerated, emphasizing the need for compassion towards all segments of society.
In his homily during the Christmas Day Mass, Leo led the congregation in a prayer for peace, stating, “There will be peace when our monologues are interrupted and, enriched by listening, we fall to our knees before the humanity of the other.” He also reflected on the plight of those in Gaza, enduring harsh weather conditions and the ongoing turmoil of war.
A Tradition Revived
This year’s Christmas celebration marked the continuation of the Holy Year, which will conclude on January 6, 2024, during the Catholic Epiphany holiday. The atmosphere in St. Peter’s Basilica was vibrant, with thousands in attendance capturing the moment on their smartphones as the Pope led the Mass beneath elaborate floral decorations.
Pope Leo XIV’s approach seeks to revitalize the papacy’s connection to the people, underscoring the importance of acknowledging and addressing the suffering of those less fortunate. As he concluded his address, he removed his glasses for a final wave to the crowd, who responded with shouts of “Viva il papa!” or “Long live the pope!”
This Christmas message, filled with calls for compassion and action, sets a hopeful tone for the pontiff’s tenure, emphasizing that even in the face of adversity, every individual can contribute to a more just and peaceful world.
