Vatican City: Pope Leo XIV has appealed for a full day of peace across the world during Christmas, urging all sides in conflicts to stop fighting, at least for 24 hours, in honour of the birth of Jesus Christ.
Pope made this appeal while speaking to journalists outside Castel Gandolfo on Tuesday. As has become his custom, he paused to answer questions on major global issues, including ongoing wars and recent developments in the United States.
Speaking about the war in Ukraine, Pope Leo said he was deeply saddened by reports that Russia had not agreed to a Christmas truce, even as heavy attacks continued in several regions. He renewed his call for a pause in fighting, expressing hope that world leaders would listen and allow one full day of peace to be respected everywhere.
Turning to the Middle East, the Pope said he was encouraged by efforts to move forward with a ceasefire, even though the situation remains fragile. He referred to the recent visit of Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, to Gaza, calling it a beautiful and meaningful gesture.
Pope Leo also said he had recently spoken with Father Gabriel Romanelli, the parish priest of the Church of the Holy Family in Gaza City, noting that people there are trying to celebrate Christmas despite ongoing uncertainty and hardship. He expressed hope that peace talks in the region would continue to make progress.
Pope also spoke about developments in the United States, particularly a new assisted suicide law passed in Illinois, his home state. The law allows assisted suicide for adults with terminal illnesses who have a prognosis of six months or less, starting from September 2026. Pope Leo said he was very disappointed by the decision, noting that he had raised serious concerns with Governor JB Pritzker during a meeting at the Vatican last November, when the bill was still awaiting approval.
He said the Church’s position is clear on the need to respect the sacredness of human life from beginning to end.
During the Christmas season, Pope invited people everywhere to reflect on the value of human life, reminding them that God chose to become human to show humanity the true meaning of life. He expressed his hope and prayer that respect for life would grow again at every stage of human existence, from conception to natural death.