POPE Leo XIV has renewed his call for a global pause in violence at Christmas, urging people of goodwill to observe at least one day of peace to mark the Nativity of the Lord.
“I once again make this appeal to all people of good will: that, at least on the feast of the birth of the Saviour, one day of peace may be respected,” Pope Leo said on Tuesday, speaking from Castel Gandolfo.
Appeal for peace amid war in Ukraine
As has become customary, Pope Leo XIV stopped to speak with journalists from various media outlets, responding to questions on several international issues, including the war in Ukraine and ongoing conflicts in the Middle East.
Referring to Ukraine, where large-scale Russian attacks have struck multiple regions in recent hours, Pope Leo expressed deep sorrow.
“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 said.
Pope Leo again urged a temporary halt to hostilities during the Christmas feast.
“Perhaps they will listen to us, and there will be 24 hours – one full day of peace throughout the world.”
Hope for progress in the Middle East
Turning to the Middle East, where discussions are underway regarding Phase Two of a ceasefire, Pope Leo recalled what he described as the “beautiful visit” to Gaza in recent days by Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem.
“An hour ago I was in contact with the parish priest,” Father Gabriel Romanelli, pastor of the Church of the Holy Family in Gaza City, Pope Leo said.
“They are trying to celebrate the feast in the midst of a situation that remains very precarious,” he said.
“Let us hope,” Pope Leo said, “that the peace agreement will move forward.”