Brussels 25.12.2024 “This year, uncertainties reigned over the world. Europe’s unity was put to the test, once again. Once again, we stood together. On Christmas Day, we can celebrate the strength of our Union.
We will tackle the big tasks lying ahead with hope and confidence. Merry Christmas” wrote the European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen on her X-page. She did not specify what does she mean under “big tasks”, and how the birth of Jesus allows to “celebrate the strength” of the EU.

The European parliament president Maltese Roberta Metsola congratulates Christians with a recorded message:

Today during his “Urbi et Orbi” speech the Pope turned to the challenges facing our world, and prayed that the sound of weapons may be silenced in war-torn Ukraine and urged for a strength and openness to negotiation and dialogue for a just and lasting peace.

Pontifex prayed for an end to war in the Middle East, recalling the Crib of Bethlehem and Christian communities in Israel and Palestine. He prayed especially for Gaza, where the humanitarian situation is dire, saying “may there be a ceasefire, may the hostages be released and aid be given to the people worn out by hunger and by war.”

“May there be a ceasefire, may the hostages be released and aid be given to the people worn out by hunger and by war.”

Pope Francis also expressed his closeness to the Christian communities in Lebanon and in Syria in the midst of transition. He prayed “the doors of dialogue and peace be flung open throughout the region, devastated by conflict.” He also encouraged the people of Libya as they work for national reconciliation.

Earlier Pope Francis sent a telegram to the German president, expressing he “learned with dismay” about the Magdeburg Xmas market attack, which took place on 20 December.

“His Holiness expresses his participation in the grief of those affected,” the telegram, sent by Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin said. It added the Holy Father “assures all the victims his spiritual closeness.” The pope thanked those “supporting the victims during this difficult time,” invoking “divine consolation” to all those who lost their lives.