Pope Francis Warns against Gossip, Celebrates Family Life in Vatican Christmas Messages

Before beginning his reflection on Dec. 21, the pontiff addressed the ongoing conflict in Gaza, deploring suffering and “cruelty.”

Praying together during Christmas season

In a separate address to Vatican employees and their families, the pope compared Vatican City to “a large beehive” bustling with activity in its streets, courtyards, corridors and offices. He thanked those working and unable to attend the gathering but made it possible.

The pope emphasized the theological virtue of humility, connecting it to the mystery of the Incarnation and particularly the Lord’s birth. He encouraged Vatican workers to see their daily tasks as participating in “the hidden Nazareths of your particular tasks” that help bring humanity to Christ.

Speaking to employees and their families gathered in the Paul VI Hall, Francis stressed the importance of family life, particularly urging attention to grandparents. “Do you visit your grandparents? Are your grandparents living in the family, or do they live in a retirement home without anyone visiting them?” the pope asked.

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Pope Francis Warns against Gossip, Celebrates Family Life in Vatican Christmas Messages

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He encouraged families to pray together during the Christmas season, particularly before the Nativity scene. “Without prayer one does not go forward, not even in the family,” Francis said. “Teach your children to pray.”

The pope described the Roman Curia as a “workshop” where various roles contribute to spreading God’s blessings throughout the world. He emphasized that humble service reflects “the way of God Himself, who in Jesus condescends to share in our human condition.”