- He drew attention to vulnerable communities, stressing that women, children and the elderly bear the heaviest burden of prolonged conflicts
- Globally, the festive period was marked by mixed messages
- Across continents, this year’s Christmas underscored both the pain caused by conflict and disaster
Pope Leo XIV has strongly criticised the devastation caused by war, describing it as senseless and deeply wounding, as he delivered his first Christmas address on Thursday.
Eko Hot Blog gathered that the pontiff spoke against the backdrop of ongoing global conflicts, particularly in Gaza and Ukraine, while calling attention to the human suffering left in their wake.
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The pope, who was elected in May following the passing of Pope Francis, used his Christmas Mass at St Peter’s Basilica to highlight the plight of displaced civilians in Gaza, noting the hardship faced by families living in makeshift shelters exposed to harsh weather conditions.
Lamenting the toll of violence on innocent populations, Pope Leo XIV said wars—whether active or concluded—leave behind ruins and scars that take generations to heal.
He drew attention to vulnerable communities, stressing that women, children and the elderly bear the heaviest burden of prolonged conflicts.
In Gaza, recent heavy rainfall has worsened living conditions for residents, most of whom were displaced during the conflict.
The United Nations has warned that more than a million people in the territory urgently require shelter support, with growing concerns about cold-related illnesses as temperatures continue to drop.
Speaking after a Christmas service at Gaza’s only Roman Catholic church, Palestinian Christian Elias al-Jalda expressed cautious optimism, saying residents hoped the season would usher in an end to the war and a gradual return to normal life.
Another worshipper, Rami al-Far, said celebrations were modest but meaningful, reflecting resilience in the face of hardship.
Meanwhile, in Bethlehem, Christians marked their first full Christmas celebration in over two years. The West Bank city, revered as the birthplace of Jesus Christ, came alive with music, parades and religious services following a fragile calm in Gaza.
Hundreds of worshippers gathered at the Church of the Nativity on Wednesday night, filling the pews long before midnight. Clergy led a solemn procession into the ancient basilica as traditional hymns signalled the arrival of Christmas Day.
Outside, residents and visitors lined Star Street for a festive parade, while families posed for photographs beside a large nativity display. Christmas lights illuminated Manger Square, and a towering tree stood beside the historic church, restoring a sense of joy absent during previous war-shadowed celebrations.
Elsewhere, signs of cautious hope also emerged in Syria, where Christmas decorations brightened parts of Damascus’ Old City despite lingering security fears within the Christian community. Residents said the celebrations symbolised a desire for peace and a better future.
Globally, the festive period was marked by mixed messages. While religious leaders preached peace and unity, extreme weather disrupted celebrations in parts of the United States, with authorities declaring emergencies in California due to flooding risks.
In Australia, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese struck a sombre tone following a deadly attack during a recent religious gathering, urging reflection and solidarity.
Across continents, this year’s Christmas underscored both the pain caused by conflict and disaster, and the enduring hope for peace, renewal and healing among communities worldwide.
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