Pope Leo XIV embraced the festive spirit of Christmas on December 8, 2024, by participating in a traditional Roman ceremony at a statue of the Madonna near the Spanish Steps. This event marked the beginning of the Christmas season, during which the Pope prayed for peace and greeted thousands who gathered despite the chilly weather.
The Pope’s inaugural visit to the statue attracted enthusiastic crowds, who witnessed his Popemobile journey through Rome’s historic centre. The area, adorned with decorations for the holiday shopping season, created a vibrant backdrop for the occasion. The association of shop owners from the nearby Via Condotti, a high-end shopping street known for brands such as Bulgari, Hermes, and Prada, presented the Pope with a special honour during the event.
Dressed in his formal red mozzetta, or cape, Pope Leo offered a bouquet of white roses and recited a brief prayer at the statue’s base. He reflected on the millions who have visited Rome during the Holy Year pilgrimage, which included a visit to the Holy Door of St Peter’s Basilica. “After the Holy Doors, may other doors now open to homes and oases of peace where dignity can flourish once more, where nonviolence can be taught, and the art of reconciliation can be learned,” he stated.
As Pope Leo prepares for his first Christmas celebration, he has introduced a change to the traditional schedule. The Christmas Eve Mass, which has been held increasingly earlier in recent years, will now commence at the customary time of 22:00. This change allows the Pope a few hours of rest before presiding over Christmas Day Mass at St Peter’s Basilica the following morning.
On January 1, 2025, Pope Leo will return to the loggia, where he first appeared as Pope on May 8, to deliver his Urbi et Orbi speech, addressing both the city of Rome and the world. He will also lead evening vespers on New Year’s Eve and a New Year’s Day Mass and blessing.
The Christmas season will conclude with the Epiphany Mass on January 6, 2025. This date also signifies the official end of the 2025 Holy Year and the closing of the Holy Door at the basilica. Typically, Holy Years, also known as Jubilees, occur every 25 years. However, Pope Leo has already announced an exceptional Jubilee to take place in 2033, commemorating the 2000th anniversary of the crucifixion and resurrection of Christ.
This festive gathering not only highlights the Pope’s commitment to peace but also underscores the deep-rooted traditions that continue to define the Christmas season in Rome. As the celebrations unfold, the Pope’s message of reconciliation and hope resonates with many around the world.
