During the Angelus prayer in St. Peter’s Square this Sunday on the occasion of Christmas, Pope Francis called on people not to “confuse the holiday with consumerism” and to think about the populations suffering from war, such as Palestine, Israel and Ukraine.
“I wish you a happy Sunday and a Christmas Eve in prayer, in the warmth of affection and sobriety, and if you allow me, a recommendation: do not confuse celebration with consumerism. As a Christian, you can celebrate in simplicity and without waste.” , Share with others. who lack what they need or who lack company,” the Pope said, leaning out of the window of the Papal Palace.
Francis also called for this Christmas to remember “our brothers who suffer from war” and “to think of Palestine, Israel and Ukraine and those who suffer from misery, hunger and slavery.”
“The God who took a human heart would infuse humanity into the hearts of people,” Francis wished.
The pope, who has just recovered from bronchitis, will preside over all Christmas liturgical events, starting with tonight’s celebration of midnight mass in St. Peter’s Basilica.
The mass will begin at 7:30 p.m. Italian time (6:30 p.m. GMT), as has been the practice in recent years, instead of waiting until midnight so that the faithful can later go to dinner with their families.
Because of his mobility issues, the pope will lead the ceremony on one side of the altar and read the homily.
On Christmas morning, as on the day of his election, Jorge Bergoglio will once again appear at 12:00 p.m. (11:00 GMT) on the central balcony of the loggia of the Vatican Basilica to read the Christmas message in concentration, like everyone else this year. , in the evils and wars of the world, and give the blessing “Urbi et Orbi” (the city of Rome and the whole world).
On the 31st, First Vespers will be celebrated in St. Peter’s Basilica at 5:00 p.m. (16:00 GMT) and on January 1st, Mass for the Solemnity of Mary, Most Holy Mother of God, will be celebrated, which coincides with the World Day of Peace.
Christmas festivities end on January 6 with Epiphany Mass at 10:00 a.m. (9:00 GMT) in San Pedro.
With information from Efe