In his inaugural Christmas address, Pope Leo XIV urged the faithful to embrace courage and compassion, emphasizing the need to end wars, particularly the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, and addressing the dire conditions faced by Palestinians in Gaza. During the Christmas Eve Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica, he expressed deep sadness over the suffering in Gaza, where many are forced to live under harsh conditions, stating that neglecting the poor is akin to rejecting God. The Pope called for a worldwide ceasefire, urging dialogue between Russia and Ukraine, and encouraged believers to welcome Jesus into their lives by extending kindness to the less fortunate. His messages underscored the shared responsibility for peace and compassion in a world marked by conflict and suffering.