Pope Leo Calls for 24 Hours of Global Peace at Christmas

Castel Gandolfo, December 23, 2025: Pope Leo XIV renewed his appeal for a worldwide pause in fighting during Christmas, urging at least 24 hours of peace in honour of the birth of Christ. He made the call while speaking to journalists outside Castel Gandolfo on Tuesday, addressing questions on ongoing conflicts and ethical concerns.

“I once again make this appeal to all people of good will: that, at least on the feast of the birth of the Saviour, one day of peace may be respected,” the Pope said, reiterating his plea ahead of the Christmas celebrations.

As is customary during his stay at Castel Gandolfo, Pope Leo stopped to engage with journalists from various media outlets. The conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East featured prominently in the discussion. Referring to Ukraine, where Russian air raids have struck several regions in recent hours, the Pope expressed deep sadness over reports that Russia had rejected calls for a Christmas truce. He renewed his appeal for a halt to hostilities, adding that he hoped “there will be 24 hours — one full day of peace throughout the world.”

Turning to the Middle East, where negotiations continue over the second phase of a ceasefire, the Pope referred to the recent visit to Gaza by Pierbattista Pizzaballa. He said he had spoken earlier in the day with Father Gabriel Romanelli, parish priest of the Church of the Holy Family in Gaza City, noting that the Christian community there was preparing to celebrate Christmas amid an extremely fragile situation. The Pope expressed hope that the peace agreement under discussion would progress.

The Pope also addressed developments in the United States, commenting on the approval of a law in Illinois permitting assisted suicide for adults with terminal illnesses and a prognosis of six months or less, due to take effect in September 2026. Referring to a previous meeting with Illinois Governor JB Pritzker at the Vatican last November, Pope Leo said he had clearly stated the Church’s position on the sanctity of life. He expressed disappointment that the bill was ultimately signed into law.

During the Christmas season, the Pope urged people to reflect on the value and meaning of human life. He said the Incarnation demonstrates what it truly means to live a fully human life and expressed his hope that respect for life would grow at every stage, from conception to natural death.

Courtesy: Vatican News

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