Pope in His Christmas Message Calls to Prevent Fresh Outbreaks of Long-Festering Conflict in Ukraine

For the first time after a two-year break, Pope Francis delivered his traditional Christmas Day ‘Urbi et Orbi’ speech from the central loggia of St. Peter’s Basilica.

According to Vatican News, in his speech, the Pontiff spoke out against the fresh outbreaks of a long-festering conflict in Ukraine.

“King of all peoples, help political authorities bring peace to societies roiled by tension and conflict … Be a source of light and support for all those who believe in and strive, despite all obstacles, to advance encounter and dialogue. In Ukraine, prevent fresh outbreaks of a long-festering conflict,” the Pope said.

He mentioned not only world conflicts, but also the poor, migrants and the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as the victims of violence against women.

The pilgrims gathered in St. Peter’s Square, despite the rainy weather, greeted the Pontiff with great enthusiasm.

The orchestras of the Pontifical Swiss Guard and the Italian Carabinieri performed the national anthems of Italy and the Vatican, after which the head of the Catholic Church delivered a Christmas message.

As a reminder, on 12 December, Pope Francis addressed the Ukrainians after another Sunday prayer. He assured that he was praying for Ukraine and for peace in its land.

The Pontiff stressed that in addition to prayer, peace can be established through dialogue, which he called for.

Bohdan Marusyak