During his General Audience on December 17, Pope Leo XIV highlighted Advent as a period of preparation, prayer, and reflection leading up to Christmas. In a packed St. Peter’s Square, he encouraged the faithful to focus on the true essence of the season and not get overwhelmed by holiday activities. He expressed hope that families would create Nativity scenes to remind them of Christ’s birth.
Addressing pilgrims in various languages, Pope Leo urged the faithful to prepare for Christmas spiritually, emphasizing the importance of reflection and the Sacrament of Confession. He reminded them to welcome Jesus into their hearts and to await His coming with joy. Notably, he referenced the Christmas novena, inviting communities to embrace its traditions.
Looking ahead, he mentioned that there would be no public audience on Christmas Eve, but a Jubilee Audience on December 20 and a General Audience on December 31, marking a significant occasion as the last New Year’s Eve audience occurred over 50 years ago.
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