Pope Francis condemns wars in Urbi et Orbi message
This is when the Pope draws the attention of Rome and the world to injustices and the needs of the disadvantaged.
On December 25, Francis honored this tradition with his strong condemnation of the war.
Before 70,000 people, Pope Francis delivered the most important message of the Catholic tradition: the birth of Christianity itself.
He recalled the persecution of Herod, who ordered the massacre of children after the birth of Jesus, and spoke about children dying in bombings around the world.
1 of 1 Pope at Christmas 2023 — Photo: Reproduction/TV Globo Pope at Christmas 2023 — Photo: Reproduction/TV Globo
“To say yes to the Prince of Peace is to say no to war, to all wars, to the logic of war itself, which is a journey without a destination, a defeat without a winner, an inexcusable madness,” Francis said.
“But to say 'no' to war, you have to say 'no' to guns,” he continued. “And how can we talk about peace when the production, sale and trade of weapons is increasing?” he asked.
Francis condemned the terrorist attacks in Israel. “I carry in my heart the pain of the victims of the heinous terrorist attack on October 7th and renew my call for the release of those still held hostage.”
And it called for an end to military operations with their frightening trail of innocent civilians.
The Pope's thoughts also went to the people of Syria, Yemen and Lebanon, Ukraine, Armenia and Azerbaijan. He referred to the conflicts in African countries and wanted reconciliation between the two Koreas.
For the American continent, he proposed solutions that overcome social and political differences. He preached the end of all forms of poverty that violate people's dignity.
Pope Francis spoke of the time of grace and hope of the 2025 Jubilee, which will begin in a year. A time of preparation that can be seen as an opportunity to convert hearts, to say “no” to war and “yes” to peace, and to promote the freedom of the enslaved and the liberation of prisoners.