Faith
Pope Calls for Prayer and Peace at Christmas
Faith Facts
- Pope Leo XIV urged Christians to pray for peace, especially in Ukraine and the Middle East.
- He emphasized the Christian duty to oppose hatred and seek reconciliation through Christ’s example.
- The Pope remembered victims of wars, persecution, and natural disasters worldwide during his message.
In his Christmas Day message, Pope Leo XIV appealed for prayers to end global violence and called for justice and stability in troubled regions.
He encouraged believers to trust Christ, the Prince of Peace, for unity and faithfulness to Christian values.
“Let us entrust the entire European continent to the Prince of Peace, asking him to continue to inspire a spirit of community and cooperation, in fidelity to its Christian roots and history, and in solidarity with – and acceptance of – those in need,” he said.
Emphasizing Jesus as the example of forgiveness and grace, the Pope urged Christians to practice dialogue and reconciliation instead of discord.
“He is the Saviour. With his grace, we can and must each do our part to reject hatred, violence and opposition, and to practise dialogue, peace and reconciliation,” he said.
He prayed for victims of wars and oppression in countries such as Ukraine, Israel, Palestine and DR Congo.
He also prayed for regions affected by natural disasters, encouraging support for all who suffer.
“In the face of such trials, I invite everyone to renew, with heartfelt conviction, our shared commitment to assisting those who suffer,” he said.
As believers, let us remain steadfast in praying and serving those in need, trusting God’s promises of hope and healing even in the midst of hardship.