Pope's heartfelt call: Global ceasefire for Christmas peace
The Pope called for a worldwide ceasefire during Christmas. Pope Francis, due to a cold, prayed from the chapel of Casa Santa Marta.
Pope Francis recited the Angelus prayer from the chapel of Casa Santa Marta, where he resides. He emphasized that he feels better, although he still has voice issues. 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 regret that he could not 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.
Francis is recovering before 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
Then, Francis called for prayers for a ceasefire around the world, 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.
Pope Francis, during the Angelus prayer in the Vatican, appealed for a global ceasefire by the Christmas holidays. He emphasized the dramatic situation of civilians in conflict areas. Francis called on leaders to pursue diplomacy, highlighting that it is the only path to lasting peace.
