VATICAN CITY — In his first Christmas Day message, Pope Leo XIV called on everyone to show compassion for those suffering around the world. He highlighted the struggles of people in places like Gaza and Yemen, as well as migrants seeking a better life across continents.
Addressing about 26,000 people from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, Leo delivered the traditional “Urbi et Orbi” message, meaning “to the city and to the world.” He emphasized the need for justice, peace, and solidarity, particularly for those affected by war and poverty.
Despite the rainy weather earlier, the sky cleared as Leo made his way through the crowd in his popemobile. He revived a tradition of greeting the audience in multiple languages, receiving loud cheers especially when he spoke in English and Spanish.
During his address, he stressed that our actions can lead to peace. “If we truly enter into the suffering of others and stand in solidarity with the weak, then the world can change,” he stated. He also called for dialogue instead of monologues to bridge divides.
Leo specifically remembered the people of Gaza, who have endured harsh conditions, and offered prayers for the oppressed in places like Ukraine, Sudan, and Mali. He urged dialogues in countries facing tensions, like Myanmar and nations in Latin America.
This gathering marked the end of the Holy Year celebrations, culminating in the Epiphany on January 6. The Pope’s message encouraged everyone to act with humility and responsibility, reminding us all of the importance of helping those in need.
Recent statistics show that global poverty rates have been rising, with over 700 million people living on less than $1.90 a day. Such figures highlight the urgency of the Pope’s message for compassion and action. As Pope Leo XIV said, it’s through our collective effort that we can foster peace and support those facing despair.
For more insights on global poverty and initiatives to address it, you can explore resources from the [World Bank](https://www.worldbank.org/en/topic POVERTY/overview).
