Pope Leo XIV marked his first Christmas as pontiff with a strong message of compassion, peace, and moral responsibility, drawing global attention to the suffering of civilians in ongoing conflicts. Speaking from the main balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica on Christmas Day, he expressed deep concern for Palestinians in Gaza forced to live in temporary tents, exposed to rain, wind, and cold after hundreds of thousands of homes were destroyed in the war.
Delivering the traditional Urbi et Orbi blessing, Pope Leo reminded the world that Christmas is not only a celebration but also a call to conscience. He said Jesus Christ is “our peace” and showed humanity the way to overcome hatred, violence, and division through dialogue, reconciliation, and love. Referring to Gaza, he said Jesus understands the pain of those who have lost everything because He took on human fragility Himself.
Earlier during Christmas Mass, the pope spoke about families in Gaza who must choose between living in unsafe, damaged buildings or staying in tents through harsh winter weather. His words highlighted the human cost of war, especially for defenseless populations who continue to suffer long after the fighting begins.
Pope Leo also prayed for peace in other troubled regions, including Lebanon, Israel, Syria, and Ukraine. He urged an end to the violence in Ukraine and called on all sides to show courage by engaging in sincere and respectful dialogue. A day earlier, he expressed sadness that a Christmas truce had not been agreed, saying even 24 hours of peace would have been meaningful.
Throughout his message, the pope emphasized compassion for refugees and migrants forced to leave their homelands in search of safety and a better future. He reminded the world that welcoming those in need is a core human and Christian value. To reflect the global nature of his message, he offered Christmas greetings in several languages, including English, Arabic, and Chinese.
Despite cold and rainy weather, thousands gathered in and around St. Peter’s Basilica to attend the Christmas celebrations. Pope Leo thanked them for their dedication and courage in coming to share the moment. reflected on the deeper meaning of Christmas, saying that while humans often seek power and control, God chose humility by becoming human to free people from all forms of slavery. He ended with a question that echoed across the square: will this love be enough to change history?
With this first Christmas message, Pope Leo XIV clearly set the tone of his papacy, centered on peace, empathy, and standing with those who suffer most.
