Pope urges to remember countries at war while celebrating Christmas

On Christmas Eve, December 24, Pope Francis called on pilgrims to avoid wastefulness and remember countries suffering from war. The pontiff wished the faithful "a gracious Sunday and Christmas Eve in prayer, warmth of relationships and moderation."

This was reported by Vatican News. Pope Francis emphasized that it is possible to celebrate in simplicity, but it is necessary to celebrate in a Christian way.

"Let us be close to our brothers and sisters who are suffering from war: let us remember Palestine, Israel, Ukraine," the pontiff said.

Earlier, Pope Francis also condemned the deaths of thousands of children in the wars raging in Ukraine, Gaza and Yemen. However, traditionally, he did not name those responsible for these deaths.

The head of the Catholic Church blamed the responsibility for these killings on an abstract "whirlwind of violence," essentially equating the aggressors and their victims to a certain extent.

The Orthodox Church of Ukraine, on the other hand, said that it is possible and necessary to celebrate Christmas during the war. They clarified that the essence of the holiday should not turn into mass entertainment and improved nutrition. First and foremost, it should be an attraction to the truths and traditions associated with eternity.

As reported by OBOZ.UA:

- The Armed Forces of Ukraine called the move of Christmas celebration from January 7 to December 25 the right choice. A video published by the military shows that Ukrainian Christmas traditions have a place even on the front line, because this is what makes us stronger.

- President Volodymyr Zelensky congratulated Ukrainians on Merry Christmas, recording a festive address at the Kyiv Pechersk Lavra.

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