Pope Leo XIV Calls for Global Solidarity in First Christmas Message
Vatican City – December 25, 2025 – In his inaugural Christmas Day address, Pope Leo XIV passionately urged teh world to move beyond indifference and actively embrace those suffering from conflict and displacement. The first American-born pope delivered his Urbi et Orbi blessing – a traditional summation of global crises – to thousands gathered in St.Peter’s Square, emphasizing the power of humility and shared obligation in achieving peace.
The day began with a papal Mass inside St. Peter’s Basilica, briefly interrupted by rain that cleared in time for Pope Leo XIV’s tour of the square in the popemobile. He then addressed the faithful from the loggia, reviving a practise of his predecessor, Pope Francis, by offering Christmas greetings in multiple languages. Warm applause greeted his salutations in english and Spanish, reflecting his personal connection to both the United States and Peru, where he previously served as a missionary and archbishop.
A Plea for Peace across the Globe
Pope Leo XIV didn’t shy away from naming specific regions gripped by turmoil. He specifically called for justice,peace,and stability in:
* Lebanon
* Gaza
* Israel
* Syria
* Ukraine
He extended prayers and support to victims of war,injustice,political instability,religious persecution,and terrorism in nations including Sudan,South Sudan,Mali,Burkina Faso,and the Democratic republic of Congo. Beyond immediate conflicts, the Pope also highlighted challenges in Latin America, the need for reconciliation in Myanmar, and the importance of restored friendship between Thailand and Cambodia.
“If he would truly enter into the suffering of others and stand in solidarity with the weak and the oppressed, then the world would change,” the Pope stated, underscoring the individual role in global healing.
Identifying with the Vulnerable
A central theme of the Pope’s message was identifying with the world’s most vulnerable populations.He specifically mentioned:
* The inhabitants of Gaza, who have “lost everything.”
* The Yemeni peopel, facing widespread hunger and poverty.
* Refugees and migrants risking their lives crossing the Mediterranean and traversing the Americas.
He also extended his thoughts to those struggling with unemployment, notably young people, underpaid workers, and those incarcerated. This focus reflects a core tenet of Catholic social teaching – a preferential option for the poor.
Dialog as the Path Forward
During his Christmas Day Mass, celebrated earlier at the altar of St. Peter’s Basilica, Pope Leo XIV emphasized that lasting peace is only attainable through genuine 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 explained in his homily.
This call for dialogue isn’t simply a plea for conversation; it’s a demand for empathy and a willingness to understand perspectives different from your own. It’s a challenge to move beyond entrenched positions and seek common ground.
the End of a Jubilee Year
this Christmas season also marks the conclusion of the Holy Jubilee Year celebrations, which will officially close on January 6th, the Catholic Epiphany. The Jubilee Year, a special period of grace and renewal in the Catholic church, has provided an prospect for reflection and spiritual growth for millions worldwide.
Additional Sources: AP
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