Pope Francis calls for global Christmas ceasefire amid crises
The Pope called for a worldwide ceasefire during Christmas. Francis, who was nursing a cold, prayed from the chapel of the Casa Santa Marta.
Pope Francis recited the Angelus prayer from the chapel of the Casa Santa Marta, where he resides. He noted that he feels better, though he still has some voice problems. He appealed for a ceasefire on all fronts during Christmas.
During the prayer, the Pope addressed thousands of faithful gathered in St. Peter's Square, expressing his regret at not being able to join them in person. "I’m sorry that I am not with you in the square, but I am already feeling better. Precaution is needed," he said.
Francis is recovering in preparation for the inauguration of the Holy Year on Christmas Eve. He will also conduct the Midnight Mass.
"May the weapons be silenced"
The Pope specifically mentioned Ukraine, which is still suffering from Russian attacks on cities, including schools and hospitals.
"Tormented Ukraine continues to be struck by attacks against the city, which at times damage schools, hospitals, and churches. May the weapons be silenced and Christmas carols resound," he appealed.
Appeal to the whole world
Francis then called for prayers for a ceasefire around the globe, including in the Holy Land and the Middle East.
"Let us pray for a ceasefire on all war fronts, in Ukraine, the Holy Land, in all the Middle East and the entire world, at Christmas," urged the Pope.
"And with sorrow I think of Gaza, of so much cruelty; of the children machine-gunned, the bombing of schools and hospitals... So much cruelty," he added.
During the Angelus prayer at the Vatican, Pope Francis appealed for a global ceasefire by the Christmas holidays. He emphasized the dire situation of civilians in conflict zones. Francis called on leaders to pursue diplomacy, highlighting that it is the only path to lasting peace.
