Pope Francis made it clear from the beginning of his papacy how Christians must live during this special time for the Church.
POPE FRANCIS December 25, 2013
“God is peace: We ask Him to help us build it each day, in our lives, in our families, in our cities and countries, in the whole world. Let us be touched by God's goodness.”
The pope says Christmas is not a time to be blinded by consumption. He says people must control material things, not vice versa.
POPE FRANCIS November 27, 2016
“If, on the other hand, we allow ourselves to be overpowered by a concern for material things, we will not be able to perceive what is much more important: the final encounter with the Lord.”
Christmas is a time in which family holds a special place. Thus, Pope Francis always speaks about families and especially those who suffer.
POPE FRANCIS December 28, 2014
“Let's take a moment to pray in silence for all those families who are going through difficult times, be it because of an illness, unemployment, discrimination, being forced to migrate, relationship problems or lack of unity. Let's pray in silence for these families.”
The pope also continues to give special attention to those who suffer most during this season. Accordingly, in his Urbi et Orbi blessings on December 25 and January 1, he always mentions some of the places most affected by war, violence and hunger worldwide.
