In a world marred by conflict, Pope Francis ushered in Christmas with a heartfelt call for peace, acknowledging the grim shadows cast by Israel’s clash with Hamas and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
The festive spirit, however, found a haven in the hearts of children globally, who tracked Santa and his reindeer on a 3-D interactive website.
Revellers worldwide embraced holiday cheer, donning Santa’s red caps in diverse activities, from city races in Skopje to surfing in Florida and jogging through Parisian woods. Yet, amidst the festivities, the Pope’s Christmas Eve mass struck a somber note, expressing solidarity with those affected by war.
The Pope alluded to the cancellation of Bethlehem’s annual celebrations, replaced only by a few festive lights.
“Tonight, our hearts are in Bethlehem, where the Prince of Peace is once more rejected by…
