IN his Christmas address, Pope Francis called for a global cessation of violence, appealing for peace in conflict-stricken regions like the Middle East, Ukraine, and Sudan.
He denounced the “extremely grave” humanitarian crisis in Gaza and urged for a ceasefire and the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas.
“I think of the Christian communities in Israel and Palestine, particularly in Gaza, where the humanitarian situation is extremely grave,” he said during the “Urbi et Orbi” address at St. Peter’s Basilica.
“May there be a ceasefire, may the hostages be released, and aid be given to the people worn out by hunger and by war.”
The Pope also appealed for peace in Ukraine, which suffered a Christmas Day missile attack, and in Sudan, devastated by a brutal civil war.
In Bethlehem, Christmas celebrations were subdued due to the ongoing war in Gaza. “This year we limited our joy,” said Bethlehem Mayor Anton Salman.
Elsewhere, global leaders echoed calls for peace. US President Joe Biden expressed hopes for “liberty and love,” while King Charles III highlighted the need to end global conflicts in his annual Christmas message.
“Peace on Earth” remained the resounding plea this Christmas.
