Christmas Message: Pope Leo's Call to Welcome the Needy

Pope Leo, the first pope from the United States, delivered a powerful message during a Christmas Eve Mass at St. Peter's Basilica. He emphasized that rejecting the poor and strangers is like turning away from God. This idea was central to his sermon, which drew parallels between the birth of Jesus in a stable and the current treatment of marginalized people. The pope highlighted how Jesus' birth in humble surroundings shows God's presence in every person. He argued that if we don't make room for people in need, we are essentially closing the door to God. This message resonated with the approximately 6, 000 attendees inside the basilica and the 5, 000 people outside who braved the rain to watch the service on screens.Leo's sermon also touched on the broader issue of how society often treats people as mere commodities. He quoted his predecessor, Pope Benedict XVI, who lamented the world's neglect of children, the poor, and foreigners. The pope's words were a stark reminder of the need for compassion and inclusivity. Despite the rainy weather, Pope Leo took the time to greet the crowd gathered outside. He expressed his admiration for their determination to attend the service, even in such uncomfortable conditions. This gesture underscored his commitment to connecting with people from all walks of life. On Christmas Day, the pope will continue his celebrations with a special Mass and deliver a traditional message and blessing to the world. His Christmas Eve sermon set the tone for a holiday season focused on empathy and solidarity.