25.12.2025 17:50
Pope Leo XIV, in his first Christmas sermon as the head of the Catholic Church, drew attention to the severe humanitarian conditions faced by Palestinians in Gaza, calling on the world for peace and solidarity in the face of ongoing wars and migration crises. The Pope stated, "How can we not think about the tents in Gaza that have been exposed to rain, wind, and cold for weeks?"
Pope Leo XIV highlighted the harsh living conditions faced by Palestinians in Gaza during his first Christmas sermon as the head of the Catholic Church, addressed the challenges faced by migrants, and emphasized the devastating effects of wars around the world.
REMINDING OF THE TENTS IN GAZA
Speaking at the Christmas mass attended by thousands at St. Peter's Basilica, Pope Leo described Jesus' birth in a stable as "God setting up His fragile tent among the people." The Pope stated, "How can we not think of the tents in Gaza that have been exposed to rain, wind, and cold for weeks?"
PEOPLES PAY THE PRICE OF WARS
In his sermon, the Pope also addressed the destruction caused by wars and the plight of homeless people, particularly highlighting the tragedies faced by soldiers sent to the front lines. "The peoples tested by ongoing or ended wars leave behind rubble and open wounds. The minds and lives of young people forced into armament at the front lines are fragile," he said.
CRITICIZING TRUMP'S POLICIES
Pope Leo, who dedicated significant attention to the difficulties faced by migrants, pointed to the drama of migrants and refugees traversing the Americas. Previously criticizing former U.S. President Donald Trump's anti-immigrant policies, the Pope stated, "Not helping the poor and foreigners is equivalent to rejecting God."
CALL FOR PEACE TO THE WORLD
Pope Leo, in his traditional "To the City and the World" (Urbi et Orbi) address from the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica, referred to the conflicts in Ukraine, Sudan, Mali, and Myanmar. Noting that the people of Ukraine are "suffering violently," the Pope invited the parties to dialogue with the support of the international community.
Pope Leo also addressed the clashes at the Thailand-Cambodia border, which have entered their third week and resulted in at least 80 deaths, calling for the "restoration of the ancient friendship between the two countries and efforts for peace."