Pope Francis delivered the Holy Christmas message at the Vatican, emphasizing the significance of peace in the conflict-ridden region of Gaza. During the Christmas eve ceremony, the Pontiff commemorated the visit of the Holy Family to Bethlehem, which he described as “the land of joyful peace.” Addressing the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, Pope Francis expressed his solidarity by stating, “This night, our hearts are with Bethlehem, where the Prince of Peace is still rejected amidst the verdict of the conflict and the tragedies faced by the prophets.” The Vatican stated that approximately 7,000 individuals attended the Christmas mass at St. Peter’s Square, with many other believers following the festivities.

Furthermore, Pope Francis is scheduled to deliver the customary “Urbi et Orbi” blessing from the balcony of St. Peter’s Square on Wednesday. This year’s Holy Feast is being celebrated in the Holy Land, given the prevailing conflict in Gaza. Bethlehem, recognized as the birthplace of Jesus Christ, remains under Israeli occupation. According to tradition, the area prohibits the presence of weapons, soldiers, and any form of military activity.

News from Armenia –
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