Vatican City: As Christmas draws near, Pope Leo XIV reminded the faithful to slow down and focus on the spiritual meaning of the season, highlighting Advent as a time for preparation, prayer, and reflection. Speaking to pilgrims from various language groups during the Wednesday General Audience on December 17, the Pope emphasized the importance of cultivating a heart ready to welcome the birth of Christ rather than becoming lost in the bustle of seasonal activities.
With St. Peterâs Square adorned with the Vatican Christmas tree and Nativity Scene, Pope Leo XIV encouraged pilgrims to use Advent to prepare themselves and their families for the coming of the newborn Jesus. âI pray that each of you, and your families, may experience a blessed Advent in preparation for the coming of the newborn Jesus, Son of God and Savior of the world,â he said in his address to English-speaking faithful.
Reflecting on the cultural and spiritual importance of Nativity scenes, the Pope spoke to the Italian-speaking pilgrims, noting that many homes are already completing or displaying these evocative representations of Christâs birth. The Vatican unveiled its official Nativity Scenes on December 15 in both St. Peterâs Square and the Paul VI Audience Hall. âI hope that this important element of our faith, culture, and art continues to be a part of Christmas,â Pope Leo said, âso that we may remember Jesus, who by becoming man, came to dwell among us.â
Addressing French-speaking pilgrims, the Pope warned against becoming absorbed in frantic preparations, which can reduce the celebration to mere routine and leave hearts empty. âLet us take the time to make our hearts attentive and vigilant as we await Jesus, so that His loving presence may become the treasure of our lives and hearts forever,â he urged. German-speaking pilgrims were similarly reminded that Advent invites believers to welcome Christ fully, with open hearts and joyful anticipation.
For Polish pilgrims, Pope Leo highlighted the final days of Advent as a time for reflection, prayer, and spiritual preparation, suggesting engagement with the Sacrament of Confession or retreats to deepen oneâs connection with Christ. Portuguese-speaking faithful were reminded of the Christmas Novena, which began on December 16, and praised its capacity to lighten hearts and prepare for the birth of the Son of God. âMay Our Lady of Hope accompany you in this spiritual commitment and always protect you and your families,â he added.
To Arabic-speaking pilgrims, the Pope stressed that Christians are called to open their hearts to the love of God and neighbor, ensuring that their lives are filled with genuine peace and joy during this sacred season.
Pope Leo XIV also shared the schedule of upcoming audiences, noting that there will be no General Audience on Christmas Eve, while a Jubilee Audience will be held on Saturday, December 20. The next General Audience is scheduled for December 31, marking the first New Yearâs Eve audience in 50 years, last held by Pope St. Paul VI in 1975.
Through his addresses, Pope Leo XIV sought to guide the faithful toward a meaningful and spiritually attentive Advent, encouraging preparation, reflection, and heartfelt celebration of the mystery of Christâs birth, rather than distraction by seasonal busyness.