Pope Leo delivered a poignant message during his Christmas Day address, urging the faithful to confront global suffering with compassion. Speaking to approximately 26,000 attendees in St. Peter’s Square on December 25, 2023, he highlighted the plight of those affected by conflict and displacement, particularly in Gaza and among migrants traversing dangerous routes for a better life.
The annual “Urbi et Orbi” address, which translates to “To the City and to the World,” serves as a reflection on the challenges facing humanity. Despite inclement weather, the crowd gathered to hear the first U.S. pontiff’s heartfelt message. The rain cleared just in time for Pope Leo’s popemobile tour, allowing him to greet the congregation before delivering his homily from the historic loggia.
Reviving a tradition of multilingual Christmas greetings, which had been set aside by his predecessor, Pope Francis, Leo received a warm reception as he spoke in English and Spanish, the latter reflecting his deep ties to Peru, where he served as a missionary and archbishop. As he concluded his address, an enthusiastic crowd member shouted “Viva il papa!” expressing their support.
In his address, Pope Leo emphasized the importance of humility and responsibility in fostering peace. He stated, “If we truly enter into the suffering of others and stand in solidarity with the weak and the oppressed, then the world would change.” He called for “justice, peace, and stability” in conflict-stricken regions such as Lebanon, the Palestinian territories, Israel, and Syria. Additionally, he prayed for “the tormented people of Ukraine” and offered solace to victims of injustice and terrorism in countries like Sudan, South Sudan, Mali, Burkina Faso, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Emphasis on Dialogue and Humanity
Pope Leo underscored the necessity of dialogue to navigate the “numerous challenges” faced globally. He specifically mentioned the need for peace in Myanmar, the restoration of relations between Thailand and Cambodia, and support for those impacted by natural disasters in South Asia and Oceania.
He articulated a profound connection to the oppressed, stating, “In becoming man, Jesus took upon himself our fragility, identifying with each one of us: with those who have nothing left and have lost everything, like the inhabitants of Gaza; with those who are prey to hunger and poverty, like the Yemeni people.” His reflections extended to economic hardships, addressing job seekers, especially youth, and underpaid workers.
Earlier in the day, Pope Leo presided over the Christmas Day Mass beneath the ornate balustrade of St. Peter’s Basilica, decorated with floral garlands and red poinsettias. During his homily, he reiterated that genuine peace can only arise through mutual understanding. “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 asserted, emphasizing the urgency of recognizing the needs of others.
The ceremony marked a significant moment for the Pope, with thousands filling the basilica, smartphones held aloft to capture the event. This Christmas season also signifies the conclusion of a holy year, culminating on January 6, 2024, with the Catholic Epiphany, celebrating the visit of the three wise men to the newborn Jesus in Bethlehem.
