Pope Francis calls for world peace in Christmas speech

In his Christmas address, Pope Francis called on the people of the world to seek peace.

In his Christmas speech, Pope Francis, the leader of the world's Catholics, called on people around the world to seek peace while drawing attention to wars and conflicts in many countries.

In his traditional prayer "To the City and to the World" on Christmas Day, Pope Francis called for an end to conflict, war and division, as well as a "silence of weapons" in Ukraine and the Middle East. He urged people not to lose hope. "Brothers and sisters, do not be afraid! The door is open, wide open. The door of God's heart is always open," he said.

Referring to the situation in the Middle East and focusing on Bethlehem, the birthplace of Jesus Christ, Pope Francis added: "With my gaze fixed on the cradle of Bethlehem, I think of the Christian communities in Israel and Palestine, especially in Gaza, where the humanitarian situation is very serious. Put out the fire, free the hostages, and help the people suffering from hunger and war."

On Christmas Day, the Pope delivered the Urbi et Orbi prayer from the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica. The phrase means "to the city and to the world." He expressed the Catholic Church's universal appeal, which dates back to ancient Rome.

According to the teachings of the Catholic Church, forgiveness and mercy are granted to all who hear the Pope's words, whether they are in person in Rome or through communication devices in all parts of the world.

According to the Vatican press office, about 30,000 people were present in St. Peter's Square on the day.