Pope Leo XIV Urges Compassion and Dialogue in His First Christmas Address
Vatican City — In a poignant message delivered during his inaugural Christmas Day address, Pope Leo XIV called upon the faithful to relinquish indifference towards those suffering globally. Emphasizing solidarity with the distressed, the pontiff highlighted the dire situations of individuals in Gaza, the impoverished in Yemen, and the countless migrants seeking refuge as they journey across the Mediterranean Sea and the Americas.
A Traditional Address to Humanity
Speaking to an audience of approximately 26,000 people gathered in St. Peter’s Square, Pope Leo XIV continued the cherished tradition of delivering the “Urbi et Orbi” (To the City and to the World) message. This address serves as an annual reflection on the various challenges confronting humanity. Despite the gloomy weather, with rain pouring during the Mass inside the basilica, the skies cleared long enough for Leo to greet the crowd from the popemobile, where he was met with enthusiastic cheers, particularly when expressing greetings in his native English and Spanish—the language of his adopted country, Peru.
Recognizing Global Distress
During his moral call to action, the pope stressed that every individual has the potential to foster peace through humility and responsibility. He remarked, “If we truly enter into the suffering of others and stand in solidarity with the weak and the oppressed, then the world will change.” His appeal for “justice, peace, and stability” extended to regions afflicted by conflict and turmoil, including Lebanon, the Palestinian territories, Israel, and Syria. Additionally, he prayed for “the tormented people of Ukraine,” addressing the issues of war, injustice, political instability, religious persecution, and terrorism, highlighting global challenges in countries such as Sudan, South Sudan, Mali, Burkina Faso, and Congo.
Emphasizing the Importance of Dialogue
In his address, Pope Leo XIV recognized the myriad challenges facing Latin America and urged for open dialogue and reconciliation efforts worldwide, including in Myanmar and the historic friendship between Thailand and Cambodia. He also expressed his concern for those affected by natural disasters in South Asia and Oceania.
Reflecting on the humanity of Jesus—whose birth is celebrated on Christmas Day—the pope identified with those who have lost everything, including the residents of Gaza, individuals suffering from hunger in Yemen, and refugees embarking on perilous journeys for a better future. He further remembered those seeking employment, particularly young people, underpaid workers, and individuals currently imprisoned.
Celebrating Christmas with Hope
Earlier in the day, Pope Leo XIV presided over the Christmas Mass held beneath the beautiful floral decorations adorning the central altar of St. Peter’s Basilica. In his homily, he reiterated that true peace can only come through sincere dialogue. He remarked, “There will be peace when our monologues are interrupted and, enriched by listening, we fall to our knees before the humanity of the other.”
The pope poignantly acknowledged the suffering of the people in Gaza, emphasizing their exposure to the harsh elements as well as the burdens faced by defenseless populations around the globe, especially young individuals forced into conflict.
Thousands filled the basilica, with many capturing the moment of the procession through their smartphones, witnessing a historic Christmas Day Mass that culminated in a celebration of community and hope.
This Christmas season also marks the conclusion of the Holy Year celebrations, culminating on January 6, coinciding with the Catholic Epiphany holiday, which commemorates the visit of the Magi to the infant Jesus.
In this festive period, Pope Leo XIV not only conveyed his good wishes to the faithful but also served as a powerful voice advocating for compassion, dialogue, and a commitment to creating a more just world for all.
