Thousands of individuals gathered at Bethlehem’s Manger Square for the initial Christmas mass conducted by Pope Leo XIV on Wednesday. This event marked a significant shift from the subdued festivities of the past two years due to the conflict in Gaza, infusing a much-needed dose of holiday cheer across the Holy Land.
Pope Leo XIV officiated his first Midnight Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica on Wednesday, with approximately 6,000 attendees inside the basilica. The iconic Christmas tree graced Manger Square once again, enhancing the solemn atmosphere of the service.
The Christmas mass, a key event in the Catholic Church calendar commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ, saw Pope Leo XIV choosing a later time compared to his predecessor, Pope Francis. This decision brought a fresh perspective to the traditional celebration.
Continuing the tradition established by former Pope John Paul II, Pope Leo will conduct another mass on Christmas Day. The service blends timeless music with symbolic rituals, such as placing a baby Jesus statue in a cradle, evoking a sense of spiritual reverence.
Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, the leading Catholic figure in the Holy Land, inaugurated this year’s festivities by emphasizing the importance of spreading light during Christmas. He conveyed messages of hope and resilience from Gaza’s Christian community, highlighting their determination to rebuild amidst adversity.
Participants like Fadi Zoughbi and Irene Kirmiz shared their joy at witnessing the vibrant scout parade in Bethlehem, a cherished Christmas tradition. However, logistical challenges, particularly at Israeli checkpoints, added complexity to their journey, underscoring the struggles faced by Palestinians in navigating travel restrictions.
Both within the grandeur of St. Peter’s Basilica and the rain-soaked piazza outside, thousands of worshippers gathered to partake in the Mass, reflecting the widespread significance of this annual celebration. Pope Leo’s upcoming Christmas Day mass and traditional blessings will continue the festive spirit, uniting believers in faith and fellowship.