Pope Leo XIV has urged for a “full day of peace throughout the world” during his Christmas address delivered outside Castel Gandolfo in Rome. This call for a holiday cease-fire comes as tensions rise amid ongoing global conflicts, particularly highlighting Russia’s refusal to join in a truce. The Pope’s appeal, made on December 25, 2023, emphasizes the importance of peace during the festive season and reflects his deep concern over the current state of global affairs.
During his address, the Pope lamented, “I once again make this appeal to all people of good will: that, at least on the feast of the birth of the Savior, one day of peace may be respected.” He expressed particular dismay regarding Russia’s decision not to participate in a Christmas cease-fire, stating this within hours of reported missile strikes on several Ukrainian regions. “Truly, among the things that cause me great sadness in these days is the fact that Russia has apparently refused the request for a Christmas truce,” he remarked.
Reflections on Global Conflicts
The Pope’s remarks come at a time when multiple regions are grappling with conflict. Questions from reporters predominantly focused on the war in Ukraine and the ongoing tensions in the Middle East. In a notable mention, Pope Leo commended Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa for his recent visit to the Gaza Strip amid a fragile cease-fire between Israel and Hamas. He remarked on the challenges faced in the region, noting, “They are trying to celebrate the feast in the midst of a situation that remains very precarious. Let us hope that the peace agreement will move forward.”
The Pope’s call for peace is part of a long-standing tradition among the papacy, particularly highlighted during times of war. This practice gained prominence during World War I, when Pope Benedict XV called for a temporary truce in 1914. Although an official cease-fire was not established, some soldiers on the Western Front took the initiative to halt hostilities temporarily, coming together to share food and sing Christmas carols in no man’s land.
Disappointment Over Assisted Suicide Legislation
In addition to his peace appeal, Pope Leo XIV addressed a more personal issue regarding legislation in his home state of Illinois. Recently, Illinois passed a law permitting physician-assisted suicide for certain terminally ill patients, which the Pope publicly criticized. He expressed disappointment after discussing the bill with Illinois Governor JB Pritzker, stating, “We were very clear about the need to respect the sacredness of life, from beginning to end. And unfortunately… he decided to sign that bill. I am very disappointed by this.”
The Pope urged individuals to reflect on the value of human life during the Christmas season. “God became human like us in order to show us what it truly means to live human life,” he said. He expressed a hopeful wish that “respect for life may grow once again at every moment of human existence, from conception to natural death.”
Pope Leo XIV’s Christmas address encapsulates a poignant moment, highlighting both the hope for peace and the need for a deeper appreciation of life in the face of contemporary challenges.
