Pope Leo XIV has called for a “full day of peace throughout the world” during his Christmas address delivered outside Castel Gandolfo in Rome. His message, aimed at fostering harmony during the festive season, was accompanied by a pointed criticism of Russia for its refusal to agree to a holiday cease-fire amidst ongoing hostilities in Ukraine.
In his address, the first American pontiff emphasized the importance of peace, urging “all people of good will” to observe a day of tranquility on December 25, the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ. “At least on the feast of the birth of the Savior, one day of peace may be respected,” he stated on Tuesday.
The Pope’s remarks came shortly after Russia launched strikes in several regions of Ukraine, a move that has drawn widespread condemnation. “Truly, among the things that cause me great sadness in these days is the fact that Russia has apparently refused the request for a Christmas truce,” Leo said, addressing reporters who posed questions about various global conflicts, including the situation in the Middle East.
Reflections on Global Conflict and Human Life
In the wake of ongoing violence, Pope Leo XIV acknowledged the recent visit of Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa to the Gaza Strip, where a fragile cease-fire agreement is in place between Israel and Hamas. He commented on the challenges faced by those celebrating Christmas in such precarious circumstances, saying, “They are trying to celebrate the feast in the midst of a situation that remains very precarious. Let us hope that the peace agreement will move forward.”
The Pope also touched on domestic issues affecting his home state of Illinois. Following the recent passage of a law allowing physician-assisted suicide for certain terminal patients, he expressed disappointment. He had previously discussed the bill with Illinois Governor JB Pritzker and underscored the need to respect the “sacredness of life, from beginning to end.” Leo stated, “Unfortunately … he decided to sign that bill. I am very disappointed by this.”
During the Christmas season, he encouraged individuals worldwide to reflect on the value of human life. “God became human like us in order to show us what it truly means to live human life,” he remarked, adding that he hopes for a renewed respect for life “at every moment of human existence, from conception to natural death.”
A Longstanding Tradition of Peace
The call for peace during Christmas is a long-held tradition for the papacy, rooted in centuries of advocacy. This practice gained particular significance during the modern era, notably when Pope Benedict XV urged a temporary truce in 1914 during World War I. Although an official cease-fire did not occur, many soldiers on the Western Front took it upon themselves to halt fighting momentarily, venturing into no man’s land to share food and sing carols.
Pope Leo XIV’s appeal for peace resonates with this historical context, as he seeks to inspire goodwill amidst a world grappling with conflict. His message serves as a reminder of the importance of compassion and understanding, particularly during a season dedicated to hope and renewal. As the global community approaches Christmas, his words urge reflection on the pressing need for harmony in a troubled world.
