Pope Leo XIV, during his first Christmas Day homily on Thursday, remembered the people of Gaza enduring weeks of rain, wind and cold, and said global conflicts can only be resolved through dialogue.
Leading Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica, the pontiff likened God’s word, made flesh through the birth of Jesus, to “a fragile tent among us.” He drew parallels with refugees, displaced populations and the homeless across the world.
Leo also spoke of civilians affected by wars and young people forced to take up arms, criticising what he described as hollow rhetoric from leaders who send others to fight.
“There will be peace when our monologues are interrupted and enriched by listening,” he said, adding that peace begins with recognising the humanity of others.
Thousands attended the Mass, with many gathering later in St. Peter’s Square for the traditional Urbi et Orbi blessing. The Christmas message is expected to highlight the major global crises of the year.
This Christmas marks the final phase of the Holy Year celebrations, which will conclude on January 6 with the feast of the Epiphany
