In brief
On Christmas Day, Pope Francis addressed thousands in St. Peter's Square, highlighting the imperative of reconciliation and aid, while urging action to alleviate suffering in conflict-affected regions.
In his Christmas address from St. Peter's Basilica on December 25, 2024, Pope Francis appealed for peace and forgiveness as Christians globally marked the festive occasion. He urged immediate cease-fires in ongoing military conflicts and called on world leaders to relieve the financial burdens of the planet’s poorest nations. Addressing the crowd, Francis specifically pointed to the war in Ukraine, advocating for "the boldness needed to open the door to negotiation" for a just peace. He also lamented the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza, where he called for urgent aid deliveries to residents suffering from hunger and conflict, and requested the release of hostages taken during the Hamas-led attack on Israel last year.The Pope’s address coincided with the commencement of the Roman Catholic Church’s Holy Year, a significant event that occurs once every twenty-five years. Francis opened the Holy Door at St. Peter’s Basilica the evening before, marking the beginning of a year-long pilgrimage expected to attract millions.
