VATICAN CITY — During his Sunday Angelus prayer, Pope Francis appealed for a ceasefire in all conflict zones in light of the upcoming Christmas season, decrying the “barbarity” of attacks on schools and hospitals in Ukraine and Gaza.
“Let the sounds of weapons fade away and let the melodies of Christmas fill the air!” he exclaimed, while delivering his Sunday message from indoors as a precautionary measure due to a cold, especially with the busy holiday period approaching.
“Let us join in prayer for a truce over the Christmas season, not only in Ukraine but also in the Holy Land, across the Middle East, and around the globe,” the Pope emphasized.
He often reflects on the struggles faced by “battered Ukraine,” which continues to endure assaults on its cities that frequently damage educational and medical facilities, as well as places of worship.
The Pope also expressed deep sorrow when considering the situation in Gaza, lamenting, “What a tragedy to witness the gunfire directed at children, the bombings of schools and hospitals… How much mercilessness!”
On the previous Saturday, he criticized the actions taken by Israel in Gaza, noting that his envoy had been prevented from entering due to ongoing Israeli bombings. However, on Sunday, Israeli officials permitted Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, the head of the Catholic Church in the region, to enter Gaza and conduct a pre-Christmas Mass for the territory’s limited Christian community.
Israeli authorities assert that they have made substantial efforts to protect civilians and claim that their conflict is solely with Hamas, which they accuse of committing acts of violence that they characterize as genocidal.
The pontiff, who celebrated his 88th birthday last week, appeared to be in good health on Sunday, following a visibly fatigued and congested appearance during his annual Christmas address to Vatican officials on Saturday.
Due to the cold weather and the demanding week ahead, the Vatican decided it was best for him to deliver his blessing indoors.
On Tuesday, he is set to commence his significant Holy Year and lead the Christmas Eve and Christmas Day festivities at St. Peter’s Basilica. Additionally, he has plans to visit Rome’s main prison on Thursday to inaugurate the Jubilee there.
Pope Francis has faced recurring bronchitis episodes, particularly during the winter months. Earlier this year, he had to be hospitalized for intravenous antibiotics. Having lost a part of one lung during his youth, the Pope often appears breathless, particularly after physical exertion or long walks.