Post by : Meena Ariff

Pope Leo XIV used his first Christmas Day homily to deliver a powerful message of compassion, drawing attention to the suffering of civilians affected by war and displacement, particularly those living in Gaza. He said the world’s ongoing conflicts can only be resolved through dialogue, understanding, and respect for human dignity.

The pope celebrated Christmas Day Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica, leading the service from the central altar beneath the basilica’s ornate balustrade. The setting reflected the spirit of the occasion, with floral garlands, clusters of red poinsettias, and white flowers placed at the feet of a statue of Mary, the mother of Jesus, whose birth Christians commemorate on Christmas Day.

Reflecting on the Nativity, Pope Leo recalled how God became human through the birth of Jesus in a humble manger in Bethlehem. He described God’s word as “a fragile tent among us,” an image he linked to the harsh realities faced by people living in temporary shelters around the world.

“How can we not think of the tents in Gaza, exposed for weeks to rain, wind, and cold,” he said, also remembering refugees and displaced people across every continent. He extended his thoughts to thousands of homeless individuals in cities worldwide who struggle to survive in makeshift shelters.

The pontiff spoke at length about the vulnerability of civilians trapped in war zones, describing them as defenseless populations tested by prolonged violence. He also highlighted the suffering of young people forced to take up arms, sent to front lines where they experience fear, loss, and the emptiness of political rhetoric used to justify war.

Pope Leo criticized the false narratives and grand speeches that often accompany decisions to wage war, saying they fail to reflect the human cost paid by soldiers and civilians alike. He emphasized that genuine peace cannot be achieved through force or isolation.

According to the pope, peace can only emerge through dialogue. He said it begins when people move beyond monologues, learn to listen to one another, and recognize the shared humanity that unites all people.

Thousands of worshippers filled St. Peter’s Basilica for the Christmas Mass, many holding up smartphones to capture images of the historic moment during the opening procession. Outside, faithful continued to gather in St. Peter’s Square despite steady rain.

Later in the day, Pope Leo was expected to deliver the traditional “Urbi et Orbi” blessing from the balcony overlooking the square. The address, meaning “to the City and the World,” traditionally offers a reflection on the major global challenges and crises of the year.

This Christmas season also marks the closing phase of the Holy Year celebrations. The special period will officially conclude on January 6, the Feast of the Epiphany, which commemorates the visit of the three wise men to the baby Jesus in Bethlehem.

#World News #gaza news #Christmas