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Pope Leo XIV Celebrates First Christmas Mass in 31 Years

12/25/2025

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Pope Celebrates Christmas Mass

Pope Leo XIV celebrated his first Christmas Mass at St. Peter's Basilica on December 24, 2025, the first such Mass in 31 years.
The Mass drew about 6,000 attendees inside and 5,000 outside, despite rainy conditions.
Pope Leo XIV criticized a "distorted economy" that devalues human life and emphasized faith, charity, and hope.
He, the first U.S.-born pope, will deliver a Christmas Day message and a blessing the following day.

Right

Pope Advocates Peace

Pope Leo XIV called for one full day of peace worldwide during his Christmas address in Rome.
The pope criticized Russia for rejecting a Christmas cease-fire amid the war in Ukraine.
He highlighted the precarious situation in the Gaza Strip.
He criticized Illinois' new law on physician-assisted suicide, emphasizing the sanctity of life.
The message reflects a long-standing papal peace tradition, reinforced by Pope Francis in April 2025.

History

Historical Context

In 1965, Pope Paul VI addressed the United Nations, advocating for global peace and condemning war, reflecting the Vatican's long-standing commitment to humanitarian values. This tradition continued with the 1967 encyclical "Populorum Progressio," emphasizing social justice. Pope Leo XIV's recent call for a worldwide day of peace highlights the Catholic Church's enduring role in promoting peace amid ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza.

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Pope Celebrates Christmas Mass

Pope Leo XIV celebrated his first Christmas Mass at St. Peter's Basilica on December 24, 2025, the first such Mass in 31 years.
The Mass drew about 6,000 attendees inside and 5,000 outside, despite rainy conditions.
Pope Leo XIV criticized a "distorted economy" that devalues human life and emphasized faith, charity, and hope.
He, the first U.S.-born pope, will deliver a Christmas Day message and a blessing the following day.

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