Christmas is getting closer and closer and the Vatican is clearly noticing. Even more so, Pope Francis' schedule is reflecting the approaching celebration.
On December 24 at 7:00 p.m., he will preside over the first event: the Midnight Mass and the opening of the Jubilee.
The next day, on December 25, the Pope will give the “Urbi et Orbi” blessing from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica. It is the blessing that popes give on special occasions and it means “from Rome to the whole world”. There he will deliver his Christmas message for peace.
The next day, Pope Francis will make a very symbolic gesture: he will visit a Roman prison to celebrate the Jubilee with them and show the prisoners the closeness of God in difficult times.
POPE FRANCIS
We know the situation in prisons, which are often overcrowded—in my land, as well—resulting in tensions and hardships. That is why I want to tell you that I am close to you, and I renew my appeal, especially to those who can act in this area, that we continue to work for the improvement of prison life.
On the last day of the year, it is tradition for the Pope to visit the Nativity scene in St. Peter's Square and greet the pilgrims present. This will be at five in the afternoon.
In 2025, on January 1, he will celebrate World Peace Day with a Mass at 10 in the morning.
The penultimate event on his agenda is January 6, when he will preside over the Mass for the Epiphany at 10 in the morning.
Christmas in the Vatican will conclude on January 12 with the Baptism of Jesus. It is a very special day in the Vatican because the Pope usually baptizes the children of employees of the Holy See in the Sistine Chapel.
BAM
TR: GS
