A Call for Kindness: Pope Leo XIV's Christmas Message
Pope Leo XIV, the first U.S. pope, made his debut Christmas speech to a crowd of 26,000 people. He stood on the loggia above St. Peter's Square, delivering the traditional "Urbi et Orbi" address. This speech is a summary of the world's struggles.
A Call for Empathy and Action
The pope emphasized the importance of empathy and action. He spoke about the need for justice, peace, and stability in troubled regions like:
- Lebanon
- Palestinian territories
- Israel
- Syria
- Ukraine
He also mentioned the suffering in:
- Sudan
- South Sudan
- Mali
- Burkina Faso
- Congo
Leo didn't forget the challenges in:
- Latin America
- Myanmar
- The strained relations between Thailand and Cambodia
He also expressed concern for those affected by natural disasters in South Asia and Oceania.
Highlighting Global Struggles
In his speech, Leo highlighted the plight of those who have lost everything, like the people of Gaza. He also spoke about:
- Hunger and poverty in Yemen
- The struggles of migrants crossing the Mediterranean and the American continent
- The unemployed, especially young people
- Underpaid workers
- Those in prison
Christmas Day Mass
Earlier, Leo led the Christmas Day Mass in St. Peter's Basilica. The basilica was decorated with floral garlands and poinsettias. In his homily, he stressed that peace can only come through dialogue. He talked about:
- The fragility of populations tried by war
- The young people forced to fight
A Message of Hope
The pope's message was clear: everyone can contribute to peace by acting with humility and responsibility. He urged people to:
- Enter into the suffering of others
- Stand in solidarity with the weak and the oppressed
