Pope Leo XIV Calls for Global Compassion in First Christmas Address

Pope Leo XIV delivered his first Christmas Day message on December 25, 2025, addressing approximately 26,000 people from the loggia overlooking St. Peter's Square. He called upon the faithful to reject indifference and stand in solidarity with those suffering globally, including the inhabitants of Gaza, the Yemeni people, and migrants seeking better futures.

The pontiff emphasized that peace can be achieved through humility and responsibility. He stated, "If he would truly enter into the suffering of others and stand in solidarity with the weak and the oppressed, then the world would change."

Pope Leo XIV appealed for justice and stability in regions such as Lebanon, the Palestinian territories, Israel, Syria, and Ukraine. He also highlighted the plight of victims of wars, injustice, political instability, religious persecution, and terrorism in countries including Sudan, South Sudan, Mali, Burkina Faso, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Reviving a tradition abandoned by his predecessor, Pope Francis, Leo XIV offered Christmas greetings in multiple languages, receiving warm applause for his messages in English and Spanish.

Earlier in the day, the pope celebrated Christmas Mass inside St. Peter's Basilica. In his homily, he underscored that peace emerges through dialogue and urged the faithful to open their hearts to those in need, stating, "On this holy day, let us open our hearts to our brothers and sisters who are in need or in pain."

This Christmas season also marks the conclusion of the Holy Year celebrations, set to close on January 6, 2026.