Vatican City: Pope Leo XIV strongly condemned the “senselessness” of war and the “open wounds” it leaves behind as he delivered his first Christmas homily on Thursday, a year marked by devastating conflicts but also renewed hopes for peace in Gaza and Ukraine.

Addressing worshippers during the Christmas Mass at St Peter’s Basilica, the Pope drew particular attention to the humanitarian suffering in Gaza. “How can we not think of the tents in Gaza, exposed for weeks to rain, wind and cold,” he said, referring to the dire conditions faced by displaced civilians. He described the suffering of “defenceless populations” caught in wars that leave behind “rubble and open wounds.”

Pope Leo XIV, elected in May following the death of Pope Francis, highlighted the fragility of human life amid ongoing and past conflicts, calling for compassion and solidarity with those affected. His message came as heavy rains lashed Gaza in recent days, worsening conditions for residents, nearly all of whom were displaced during the war.

According to the United Nations, around 1.3 million people in Gaza currently require shelter assistance, with rising concerns over hypothermia as temperatures drop. Despite the hardships, Bethlehem witnessed its first festive Christmas celebration in more than two years, as the city slowly emerged from the shadow of the Gaza conflict.

In Gaza, the Christian community marked Christmas in a subdued manner. “The war, in all its forms, has been harsh on everyone living on this land,” said Elias al-Jalda, a Palestinian Christian, after attending Christmas Mass at Gaza’s only Roman Catholic church. Expressing hope, he added that this year could signal “the beginning of a new phase - one defined by a complete end to the war and the return of life to Gaza.”

Another worshipper, Rami al-Far, reflected the somber mood, saying celebrations remained limited. “We try to live as best we can with what we have,” he said, underscoring the resilience of a community seeking peace amid prolonged suffering.

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