The first Christian martyr was an example of the willingness to forgive our brothers. The Pope remembered the many Christians who suffer, are persecuted and killed worldwide because of their faith.
The Pope decried discrimination once morest Christians and called on the persecuted Christian communities to fight for justice and religious freedom. “The media shows us what causes war. Gaza, Syria and Ukraine are a desert of death. The peoples want peace!” said the Pope during the Angelus prayer.
“Do I believe in it?”
“Let us ask ourselves, do I care for those who are still suffering and dying for the faith in different parts of the world, for the many who are being murdered for the faith, and do I pray for them? And do I, in turn, try to spread the gospel with consistency, gentleness and trust? Do I believe that the seeds of good will bear fruit, even if I don’t see immediate results?” the Pope asked.
The 87-year-old pontiff received many congratulations at Christmas. He thanked him publicly for this on St. Stephen’s Day. “In the past few days I have received a lot of congratulations. Since I cannot respond to everyone, today I express my sincere thanks to everyone, especially for the gift of your prayers,” said the Roman Catholic church leader.
Meaning of peace
In light of the wars and conflicts in the world, Pope Francis emphasized the importance of peace in his Christmas message on Christmas Day. At the same time, he lamented the many “massacres of innocents” that are taking place around the world. The pontiff expressly called on Christians to say “no” to war and weapons. The Christmas message and the blessing Urbi et orbi are a highlight of the Christian Christmas celebration.
The Pope expressed his closeness to the people of Israel and Palestine. “I embrace them all, especially the Christian communities in Gaza and throughout the Holy Land. I mourn in my heart the victims of the despicable attack of October 7 and renew my urgent appeal for the release of those still held hostage.” , explained the Pope.
Picture gallery: Christmas mass in the Vatican
Vatican (Photo: TIZIANA FABI (AFP)) Bild 1/17
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The Christmas message and the blessing Urbi et orbi are a highlight of the Christian Christmas celebration. 6,500 believers attended Christmas mass with the Pope on Sunday evening. 3,000 pilgrims watched the mass on screens in St. Peter’s Square.
