On Christmas Eve, Pope Leo Says Turning Away the Poor Means Turning Away God

Post by : Saif

On Christmas Eve at the Vatican, Pope Leo delivered a powerful message calling on people to open their hearts to the poor, migrants, and those in need. Speaking during a solemn Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica, the pope said that refusing help to the poor or turning away strangers is the same as rejecting God himself.

Pope Leo reminded worshippers of the story of Jesus’ birth, when Mary and Joseph found no room at an inn and had to shelter in a stable. He said this story is not only about the past but carries a clear lesson for the world today. According to the pope, when society leaves no space for the weak, the homeless, or the unwanted, it also leaves no space for God.

“There is no room for God on earth if there is no room for the human person,” Pope Leo said during the service. He explained that caring for people is at the heart of faith, and denying dignity to any human being goes against Christian values.

The Mass was attended by around 6,000 people inside St. Peter’s Basilica, while nearly 5,000 more gathered outside in St. Peter’s Square. Many stood in heavy rain, watching the service on large screens. Before the Mass began, the pope stepped outside to greet the crowd, thanking them for coming despite the difficult weather and praising their dedication.

Pope Leo, who is 70 years old, is celebrating his first Christmas as head of the Roman Catholic Church. He was elected in May, becoming the first pope born in the United States. Since the beginning of his papacy, he has spoken often about the need to protect immigrants, support the poor, and place human dignity above economic gain.

During his sermon, the pope spoke strongly against systems that treat people like objects or products. He said that when money and power become more important than human life, society loses its sense of compassion. In contrast, he explained, the birth of Jesus shows that every person has deep value, no matter how poor or forgotten they may seem.

Pope Leo also quoted the late Pope Benedict XVI, who once said the world often fails to care for children, the poor, and foreigners. By recalling these words, Leo underlined that this problem still exists and needs urgent attention.

He added that God chooses to be present wherever people show kindness and care for one another. Even a simple place, like a stable, can become holy if it is filled with love and respect for human life.

On Christmas Day, Pope Leo is expected to lead another Mass and deliver the traditional “Urbi et Orbi” message and blessing, which is addressed to the city of Rome and the entire world. His Christmas Eve message has already set a clear tone for his papacy, placing compassion, dignity, and care for the vulnerable at its center.

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