Overview
- During his Dec. 21 Angelus in St. Peter’s Square, Pope Leo XIV blessed infant Jesus statues destined for Nativity scenes in homes, schools, and parishes.
- His catechesis focused on Saint Joseph, highlighting piety, charity, mercy, and trustful abandonment as virtues for the final days of Advent.
- He asked the faithful, especially children, to pray for his intentions and for all the world’s children to live in peace.
- The pope greeted over 1,500 children from Rome and groups from Spain and Hong Kong, with the gathering organized by the Roman Oratory Center.
- Entering his first Christmas as pope, he will preside over Christmas Eve and Christmas Day liturgies, continue through New Year celebrations, and close the Jubilee of Hope by shutting St. Peter’s holy door on Jan. 6, 2026.