Pope Francis delivered his annual Christmas message and blessing, “Urbi et Orbi,” from the Vatican on Wednesday, calling for global peace and an end to conflicts. The leader of the Roman Catholic Church highlighted the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine, urging “the boldness needed to open the door to negotiation” and expressing a wish for the silencing of weapons in Ukraine. He emphasized the need for “gestures of dialogue and encounter” to achieve a just and lasting peace.
Francis, who is celebrating the 12th Christmas of his papacy, also appealed for an end to various global conflicts, including those in Lebanon, Mali, Mozambique, Haiti, Venezuela, and Nicaragua. He was notably criticized by Ukrainian officials earlier this year after suggesting Ukraine should negotiate peace with Russia, a stance that was rejected by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, though recent shifts in Zelenskyy’s position have indicated a willingness to explore talks.
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In addition to addressing the Ukraine conflict, Pope Francis renewed his call for a cease-fire in the Israeli-Hamas war, condemning the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. He urged for “the doors of dialogue and peace to be flung open” and for the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas.
The Christmas celebration marked the beginning of the 2025 Holy Year, a significant event for the Catholic Church, expected to attract 32 million pilgrims to Rome. Pilgrims gathered early to walk through the Holy Door at St. Peter’s Basilica, a symbolic act offering indulgences during the Jubilee. Pope Francis inaugurated the 2025 Holy Year by being the first to pass through the Holy Door on Christmas Eve, dedicating the year to hope, peace, and forgiveness.
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