Pope Leo XIV delivered his first Christmas Day message on December 25, 2023, urging the faithful to confront indifference towards those suffering worldwide. Speaking from the loggia overlooking St. Peter’s Square, he addressed approximately 26,000 people, emphasizing the plight of communities in Gaza, Yemen, and among migrants seeking a better life.
The Pope’s message came during the traditional “Urbi et Orbi” address, which translates to “To the City and to the World.” Despite rain earlier in the day, the weather cleared, allowing Leo to greet the crowd from his popemobile. He revived the tradition of delivering Christmas greetings in multiple languages, a practice his predecessor, Pope Francis, had abandoned. The crowd responded enthusiastically, particularly when he spoke in English and Spanish, the latter reflecting his time as a missionary and archbishop in Peru.
In his address, Pope Leo highlighted the necessity for compassion and solidarity. “If we truly enter into the suffering of others,” he stated, “and stand in solidarity with the weak and the oppressed, then the world would change.” He called for “justice, peace and stability” in regions such as Lebanon, Israel, and Syria, and offered prayers for the “tormented people of Ukraine,” as well as those affected by conflicts in Sudan, South Sudan, Mali, Burkina Faso, and Congo.
Addressing Global Crises
The Pope also called for dialogue to tackle numerous challenges in Latin America and emphasized the need for reconciliation in Myanmar. He urged the restoration of historical ties between Thailand and Cambodia and highlighted the urgency of providing assistance to those impacted by natural disasters in South Asia and Oceania.
Pope Leo’s message resonated deeply with the audience as he articulated the shared human experience of suffering. “In becoming man, Jesus took upon himself our fragility,” he remarked, connecting with the struggles of individuals worldwide. He specifically mentioned the people of Gaza, who have faced harsh conditions, and those in Yemen, afflicted by hunger and poverty. He also recognized the plight of refugees and migrants crossing the Mediterranean Sea and traversing the American continent in search of a future.
During his homily at the Christmas Day Mass in St. Peter’s Basilica, decorated with red poinsettias and floral arrangements, Pope Leo reiterated the importance of peace through dialogue. “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 declared.
A Day of Reflection
The Pope reflected on the experiences of defenseless populations caught in conflicts and the senselessness faced by young people forced to take up arms. He expressed sympathy for those who have lost their jobs or are struggling to find work, particularly the youth and underpaid workers.
As thousands filled the basilica, many raised their smartphones to capture the moment. This Christmas marks a significant period for the Catholic Church, as the Holy Year celebrations will conclude on January 6, 2024, during the Epiphany holiday, commemorating the visit of the three wise men to the infant Jesus.
Pope Leo XIV’s inaugural Christmas message emphasized the universal call for compassion, urging individuals to reach out to those in need and to seek peace through understanding and dialogue.
