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

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

“Our hearts are in Bethlehem, where Prince of Peace is once more rejected by futile logic of war, ” pope said alluding to ravaging conflict. As mass began on Christmas Eve, a statuette of Christ child was unveiled before altar bedecked in greenery and white flowers. event also included children representing all corners of world. Pope went on to warn against “ 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 brors’

During tritional Angelus blessing overlooking St. Peter’s Square at midday, pontiff remembered those who were suffering in war. He also recalled devastation caused by ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. “We are close to our brors 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 God who took a human heart for himself infuse humanity into hearts of men,” he ded. dressing garing from 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.