Pope Leo XIV Celebrates Christmas Mass, Calls for Peace in Gaza

In his inaugural Christmas Day homily, Pope Leo XIV delivered a heartfelt message, shining a light on the plight of civilians caught in the turmoil of war and upheaval, particularly in Gaza. He highlighted the necessity of resolving global conflicts through respect, dialogue, and understanding.

The Pope officiated the Christmas Day Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica, presiding from the central altar adorned with floral decorations and vibrant poinsettias, embodying the warmth of the Christmas season and the spirit of joy stemming from the birth of Jesus.

Reflecting on the Nativity story, he recalled how God manifested in human form through the humble arrival of Jesus in a Bethlehem manger. He depicted God’s presence as “a fragile tent among us,” resonating with the harsh conditions faced by individuals inhabiting temporary shelters around the globe.

“How can we not consider the tents in Gaza, enduring weeks of rain, cold, and wind?” he said, extending his thoughts to the countless refugees and individuals displaced worldwide, alongside the homeless struggling in cities.

The pontiff expressed grave concern for civilians caught in conflict zones, characterizing them as defenseless communities enduring relentless violence. He further spoke on the toll taken on youth thrust into combat, wrestling with fear and loss, amidst the hollow justifications presented for warfare.

He criticized the misleading narratives that often accompany war declarations, emphasizing the human toll exacted on both soldiers and civilians. Genuine peace, according to him, cannot stem from force or isolation.

“Peace can only burgeon through dialogue,” he stated, advocating for a shift from one-sided discourses to mutual listening and recognizing the shared humanity binding everyone.

The Basilica witnessed thousands of worshippers during the Christmas Mass, many capturing the moment with their smartphones as the procession unfolded. Outside, despite unrelenting rain, more faithful gathered in St. Peter’s Square.

Later, Pope Leo was slated to share the customary “Urbi et Orbi” blessing from the balcony, a message reflecting the significant global challenges of the year.

Furthermore, this Christmas season signifies the conclusion of the Holy Year celebrations, which will formally wrap up on January 6, during the Feast of the Epiphany, commemorating the arrival of the three wise men to the infant Jesus in Bethlehem.