Pope Leo XIV Urges Global Solidarity in First christmas ‘Urbi et Orbi’ Address
Pope Leo XIV delivered a powerful Christmas message on Thursday, calling for an end to indifference and urging the faithful to remember those suffering in conflict zones like Gaza and Yemen, and also migrants seeking a better life.
VATICAN CITY – In his first “Urbi et Orbi” address as Pope, Leo XIV extended compassion to those facing hardship across the globe. Addressing approximately 26,000 people from the loggia of St. PeterS Square, the Pope’s “Urbi et Orbi” – Latin for “to the city and to the world” – message served as a stark reminder of the world’s ongoing crises.
Despite a rainy morning that gave way to clearer skies, the atmosphere was solemn as Pope Leo completed a brief tour of the square in the popemobile before delivering his address.The pontiff notably revived a tradition discontinued by his predecessor, Pope Francis, by offering Christmas greetings in multiple languages, drawing especially enthusiastic applause for his greetings in English and spanish – languages reflecting his personal history as a missionary and archbishop in Peru. A jubilant cry of “Viva il papa!” echoed from the crowd before he returned to St. Peter’s Basilica.
A Call for Humility and Duty
During the conventional address, Pope Leo emphasized the transformative power of empathy and accountability. “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, highlighting the importance of personal responsibility in fostering peace.
The pope specifically called for “justice,peace and stability” in a number of regions grappling with conflict,including Lebanon,the Palestinian territories,Israel,and Syria. He also offered prayers for “the tormented people of Ukraine,” and extended “peace and consolation” to victims of war,injustice,political instability,religious persecution,and terrorism in countries such as Sudan,South Sudan,Mali,Burkina Faso,and Congo.
Focus on Global Humanitarian Crises
Pope Leo’s message placed particular emphasis on the plight of vulnerable populations. He specifically mentioned the inhabitants of Gaza, “exposed for weeks to rain, wind and cold,” and the people of Yemen, “prey to hunger and poverty.” He also highlighted the struggles of migrants and refugees undertaking perilous journeys across the Mediterranean Sea and the American continent in search of a better future. The pontiff further extended his concern to those who have lost their jobs, young people seeking employment, underpaid workers, and individuals incarcerated.
“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; with those who are fleeing their homeland to seek a future elsewhere, like the many refugees and migrants who cross the Mediterranean or traverse the American continent,” the Pope said.
Peace Through Dialog and Reconciliation
Earlier in the day,Pope Leo led Christmas Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica, underscoring the critical role of dialogue in achieving lasting peace. “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 preached in his homily.
He reiterated his concern for the people of Gaza, describing their vulnerability and the tragic consequences of conflict, particularly for young people forced into armed conflict. thousands of worshippers filled the basilica, capturing the opening procession with their smartphones.
The Pope also urged dialogue to address challenges in Latin America, promote reconciliation in Myanmar, restore relations between Thailand and Cambodia, and provide assistance to those affected by natural disasters in South Asia and Oceania.
This Christmas season also marks the conclusion of the Holy Year celebrations, which will officially close on January 6th, the Catholic Epiphany, commemorating the visit of the three wise men to the baby Jesus in Bethlehem. Pope Leo XIV’s first Christmas message served as a poignant reminder of the enduring need for compassion,justice,and peace in a world facing unprecedented challenges.
