Pope Francis Urges Global Unity, Peace in Christmas Day Address

Delivering his annual Urbi et Orbi (To the City and the World) Christmas blessing, Pope Francis called for global efforts to “silence the sounds of arms and overcome divisions,” highlighting the need for reconciliation and solidarity in addressing the world’s crises.

Speaking from the central balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica to a large audience, the pontiff marked the occasion as a moment to reflect on hope, especially with the beginning of the 2025 Holy Year.

The Pope urged all nations and individuals to act as “pilgrims of hope,” advocating for peace in conflict zones, including war-torn Ukraine, the Middle East, and Africa. He expressed particular concern for Gaza, Lebanon, and Syria, emphasizing the dire humanitarian challenges in these regions.

Pope Francis spotlighted the plight of Christian communities in Israel and Palestine, alongside broader calls to address ongoing conflicts in Myanmar and outbreaks of diseases such as measles in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The pontiff reiterated his appeal for the release of hostages captured during the October 2023 Hamas-Israel conflict.

Remembering vulnerable populations, the Pope spoke of children affected by war and hunger, the elderly in isolation, and those displaced or persecuted for their faith.

Pope Francis’s message concluded with a heartfelt invitation to unite beyond divisions, embodying the spirit of hope and peace for a fractured world.