Pope Francis has delivered his annual “Urbi et Orbi” (to the city and the world) Christmas message from the Vatican, calling for global peace and an end to ongoing conflicts. In his address, Francis specifically mentioned the war between Russia and Ukraine, urging boldness to open the door to negotiation.
The Pope’s message comes as he celebrates his 12th Christmas as pope, during which he has called for an end to conflicts in various countries including Lebanon, Mali, Mozambique, Haiti, Venezuela, and Nicaragua. He also renewed his call for a cease-fire in the Israeli-Hamas war and for the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas.
Francis, who is 88 years old, emphasized the importance of dialogue and encounter to achieve just and lasting peace. He stated that “the sound of weapons be silenced in Ukraine” and called on people to show gestures of dialogue and encounter.
The Pope’s message coincides with the start of the 2025 Holy Year celebration, which is expected to bring about 32 million Catholics to Rome. Pilgrims lined up early to walk through the great Holy Door at St. Peter’s Basilica, a way to obtain indulgences and forgiveness for sins during a Jubilee.
Source: https://www.foxnews.com/world/pope-francis-addresses-ukraine-middle-east-christmas-day-message-may-sound-weapons-silenced