Wed Dec 25 16:42:54 UTC 2024: ## Pope Francis Pleads for Peace Amidst Global Conflicts as Holy Year Begins

**Vatican City –** Pope Francis delivered a powerful Christmas Day message urging peace in a world embroiled in conflict, as the Catholic Church launched its 2025 Holy Year. Speaking from St. Peter’s Basilica to thousands, the pontiff called for negotiations to end the war in Ukraine and a ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas conflict, highlighting the “extremely grave” humanitarian crisis in Gaza. He also appealed for the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas. His address, delivered during the Urbi et Orbi (“To the City and the World”) address, coincided with the opening of the Jubilee Year, expected to draw 32 million pilgrims to Rome.

The Holy Year’s commencement was marked by the opening of the Holy Door in St. Peter’s Basilica, a symbolic act allowing the faithful to obtain indulgences. Pilgrims, including Blanca Martin from San Diego, described the experience as deeply emotional and spiritually significant. The basilica itself showcased the results of extensive restoration work, revealing the beauty of Bernini’s Baldachin and the Chair of St. Peter.

This year’s Christmas celebrations were overshadowed by global events. Russia launched a major strike on Ukraine on Christmas Day, and the ongoing conflict continues to claim tens of thousands of lives. Germany mourned a deadly Christmas market attack in Magdeburg that left five people dead and many injured, prompting President Frank-Walter Steinmeier to address the tragedy in his Christmas speech. A Saudi doctor was arrested in connection with the attack.

Remarkably, Hanukkah, the Jewish Festival of Lights, began on Christmas Day, a rare confluence that prompted some interfaith gatherings. However, religious leaders noted the somber backdrop of ongoing conflicts and rising antisemitism.

Read More