Pope urges global ceasefire for Christmas amid recovery
The Pope has called for a global ceasefire during Christmas. Due to a cold, Pope Francis 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 mentioned feeling better, though still experiencing some vocal issues. He made an appeal for a ceasefire on all fronts during Christmas.
During the prayer, the Pope addressed thousands of faithful gathered in St. Peter's Square, expressing regret at not being able to be with them in person. "I’m sorry that I am not with you in the square, but I already feel better. Precaution is needed," he said.
The Pope is recovering ahead of the Holy Year inauguration on Christmas Eve. He will also conduct the Midnight Mass.
"May the weapons be silenced"
The Pope specifically mentioned Ukraine, which continues to endure 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 globally, 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," the Pope urged.
"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 highlighted the dire situation of civilians in conflict zones and urged leaders to embrace diplomacy, emphasising that it is the only route to lasting peace.
