Pope Francis issued a heartfelt plea for a ceasefire across all war-torn regions during his Sunday Angelus prayer ahead of the Christmas celebrations. The Pope strongly condemned the “cruelty” being inflicted through the bombing of schools and hospitals in conflict zones such as Ukraine and Gaza.
In his address, delivered from the confines of indoor surroundings due to a cold and as a precautionary measure amidst the upcoming festive season, Francis urged for a cessation of hostilities. He implored, “Let the weapons fall silent and may the melodies of Christmas carols fill the air!”
The Pontiff fervently prayed for a halt in the violence on all fronts of war, emphasizing the need for peace in regions like Ukraine, the Holy Land, the Middle East, and globally. He highlighted the continued suffering in Ukraine, where attacks persist on populated areas, resulting in the destruction of vital institutions like schools, hospitals, and churches.
Expressing profound sorrow over the situation in Gaza, Pope Francis denounced the brutal acts, including the targeting of children and the bombing of essential facilities. He lamented, “How much cruelty!”
Earlier, on Saturday, Francis had also voiced criticism towards Israel’s military actions in Gaza, disclosing that his envoy had faced obstacles entering the area due to the ongoing bombings. Nevertheless, Israeli authorities subsequently granted permission for Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, the head of the Catholic Church in the Holy Land, to visit Gaza and lead a pre-Christmas Mass for the local Christian community.
Israel has defended its actions by asserting that efforts have been made to minimize civilian casualties, citing Hamas as the primary target due to its alleged involvement in initiating violent confrontations.
Despite turning 88 recently, the Pope appeared in good health during Sunday’s address, following a previous instance where he seemed unwell while addressing the Vatican officials during the annual Christmas gathering. The decision to move the Angelus prayer indoors was attributed to the cold weather conditions and the demanding schedule awaiting Francis in the lead-up to Christmas, including the inauguration of the Holy Year and the upcoming festive ceremonies at St. Peter’s Basilica.
Furthermore, on Thursday, the Pope is slated to visit Rome’s primary penitentiary to kick off the Jubilee celebrations there. Francis has a history of struggling with bronchitis, particularly during the winter season. In 2023, he required hospitalization for intravenous antibiotic treatment. Having undergone the partial removal of a lung in his youth, the Pope often experiences shortness of breath, particularly after physical exertion.
