Pope Leo XIV marked his first Christmas season as head of the Catholic Church by urging compassion for the poor, migrants and people affected by conflict, while drawing attention to humanitarian crises in several parts of the world. The pope presided over Christmas Eve and Christmas Day Masses at the Vatican and delivered the traditional Urbi et Orbi blessing from St. Peter’s Basilica to crowds gathered in St. Peter’s Square and viewers worldwide.

During Christmas Eve services, Leo emphasized the moral responsibility to care for those living in poverty and people displaced from their homes. He framed the Christmas message around humility and solidarity, highlighting the vulnerability reflected in the biblical account of Jesus’ birth and linking it to the modern-day struggles of marginalized communities.

In his Christmas Day address, the pope referenced ongoing conflicts and humanitarian emergencies, including the situations in Gaza and Yemen, as well as the broader plight of migrants and refugees. He called for an end to violence, greater international cooperation and renewed efforts toward peace, stressing the need to protect civilians and uphold human dignity.

Leo’s remarks continued a longstanding Vatican tradition of using major religious observances to highlight global suffering, while also signaling the priorities of his papacy, which began earlier in 2025. His Christmas messages focused on unity, dialogue and practical acts of compassion as central themes for both believers and the international community.

Sources: AP News, THe Guardian, Catholic News Agency