Vatican City, In a poignant Christmas Eve Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica, Pope Francis expressed sorrow over the conflict in the Holy Land. He emphasized that Jesus’ message of peace is being overshadowed by the “futile logic of war” in Bethlehem, where the Prince of Peace is once again rejected.
Amidst ongoing clashes in Gaza, the 87-year-old pontiff urged for a ceasefire, lamenting the impact on the city of Bethlehem and the wider Palestinian territories. The Mass, attended by 6,500 people and watched by many more outside, conveyed the central theme of Christmas as one of peace and love, cautioning against the obsession with worldly success and consumerism.
Earlier, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed to intensify the conflict in Gaza, prompting concerns from various quarters. The Palestinian Minister of Tourism, Rula Ma’ayah, noted Bethlehem’s somber Christmas celebration due to the events in Gaza and the West Bank.
As Pope Francis prepares for his Christmas Day message, he continues to advocate for peace and the release of hostages held by Palestinian militant groups, emphasizing the transformative power of love even in challenging times.
