'Our hearts are in Bethlehem': Pope Francis expresses grief over loss of lives in Israel-Hamas war

Vatican City: During his 2023 Christmas address, the Vatican sovereign Pope Francis recalled Jesus Christ's birthplace Bethlehem and expressed grief over the ongoing Israel-Hamas war. The head of the Roman Catholic Church said that the “clash of arms even on the auspicious day” prevents Jesus from “finding room in the word”. The proclamation from the Pontiff came as he presided over the Mass attended by about 6,500 of his ardent disciples. The mass took place at St. Peter’s Basilica. The Holy City of Bethlehem is currently stuck in the ongoing Israel-Hamas war. To pay respect to those who lost their lives in the war, the city has decided to scale down its Christmas Day celebrations. 

“Our hearts are in Bethlehem, where the Prince of Peace is once more rejected by the futile logic of war, ” the pope said alluding to the ravaging conflict. As the mass began on Christmas Eve, a statuette of the Christ child was unveiled before the altar bedecked in greenery and white flowers. The event also included children representing all corners of the world. The Pope went on to warn against “the quest for worldly power and might, fame and glory, which measures everything in terms of success, results, numbers and figures, a world obsessed with achievement," Politico reported. 

‘We are close to our brothers’

During the traditional Angelus blessing overlooking St. Peter’s Square at midday, the pontiff remembered those who were suffering in the war. He also recalled the devastation caused by the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. “We are close to our brothers and sisters suffering from war. We think of Palestine, Israel, and Ukraine. We also think of those who suffer from misery, hunger, slavery,’’ Francis said. “May the God who took a human heart for himself infuse humanity into the hearts of men,” he added. Addressing the gathering from the window of his studio, Pope shared a poignant message. “I urge you all not to confuse celebration with consumerism. One can and, as a Christian, must celebrate in simplicity without waste and by sharing with those who lack necessities or lack companionship,” Pope Francis concluded.