Pope Francis expresses gratitude to the organizers of the Christmas "Concert with the Poor and for the Poor" in the Vatican's fourth edition, welcoming around 3,000 destitute individuals as guests of honor. The event, initiated in 2015 to support the Pope's charities, features a dinner and essential items distribution. Earlier today, the Pope met with organizers, including conductors Msgr. Marco Frisina and Speranza Scappucci, to convey his appreciation.

In a moment of sharing and fraternity, Pope Francis states, “I thank you because, by involving so many people, you manage to offer a free concert to thousands of poor people, and with your music, you offer a moment of meeting and sharing, and then a meal and blanket, in other words: fraternity.” He emphasizes the significance of the concert being not only "for" the poor but, more importantly, "with" the poor, aligning with the true meaning of the Christian message.

Reflecting on the Christian message, the Pope notes, “God came 'for' us, by living 'with' us, thus becoming like us.” He encourages prayer for such encounters, stating, “Music is not enough, lights, decorations are not enough, we need prayer.”

Organized by Opera Nova Onlus and the Diocese of Rome's choir, sponsored by the Governorate of the Vatican City State and the Dicastery for the Service of Charity, the concert sees conductors Speranza Scappucci and Msgr. Frisina leading the Orchestra and Choir of Rome's Opera Theatre. The 200-member Diocese of Rome choir, positioned behind the orchestra, provides vocals for pieces by Mozart, Rossini, Tchaikovsky, and Beethoven.

Renowned soprano Maria Grazia Schiavo and South African tenor Levy Sekgapane deliver solo arias, and the program includes sacred music and popular holiday favorites like "Silent Night" to celebrate the Christmas season. The Pope commends the organizers, affirming their ability to create harmony not just in music but among people, echoing the spirit of Christmas.