Pope Leo XIV During Advent: Do Not Let Busyness Distract You from Christ

In St. Peter's Square, many loyal followers were present on Christmas Day as they viewed the Christmas tree and the Nativity Scene; Pope Leo XIV reiterated how Advent is a time of readying oneself for the celebration of the birth of Christ.

During the Wednesday General Audience on December 17, he extended words of encouragement in his diverse greetings to pilgrims representing various language groups.

Pope Leo spoke to the English-speaking members of the Church his hope that every person and the family unit would experience a blessed Advent, along with an expectation of greeting the infant Jesus from God and our Redeemer coming into the world.

Significance of Nativity Displays

In his address to Italian Catholics he said; "As Christmas nears, I am sure you are completing or have completed building your nativity scene, a beautiful representation of the Mystery of Christ's Birth."

On Monday, December 15, the Vatican officially presented its Nativity Scenes in both St. Peter’s Square and the Paul VI Audience Hall.

"I have faith that this highly significant piece of both our faith and of the larger Christian society and the artistic expression will continue to be one of the most treasured parts of the Christmas season as we remember Jesus who, by becoming human and 'dwelling among us,' made this gift available to us."

Do Not Let Busyness Distract You

He urged the faithful to immerse themselves in this celebration, free of distractions caused by other matters, as Christmas is approaching in a week. Additionally, he sent an all-encompassing Christmas greeting to French-speaking people.

He warned us against falling prey to the rapid preparations for the feast; the outcome would be a shallow experience, and thus could lead to disappointment. He encouraged us to spend time preparing our hearts to be watchful and waiting for Jesus. As a result, Jesus will be an everlasting gift in our lives and hearts.

In his message to the German pilgrims, he stressed that Advent “invites us to get ready for Christmas by welcoming Jesus into our lives.” He remarked that, "He is our hope. So let us be prepared to celebrate and await the birth of Jesus and pray with certainty: 'Come Lord Jesus.'"

A Time for Contemplation and Prayer

In an address to Polish audiences, he called for the remaining days of Advent to be spent in reflection and prayer while offering opportunities for preparing for Christ's arrival by way of the Sacrament of Confession or through the practice of retreating spiritually.

To a group of individuals who speak Portuguese - he pointed out that this time of year marks the Novena de Natal starting on the 1st Tuesday before Christmas. There are many "traditions" that are part of the way all these communities celebrate together.

Additionally, he stated that this dedication would provide “a renewed opportunity for everyone to strengthen their hearts and prepare for the forthcoming arrival of Our Lord, Jesus Christ. May Our Lady of Hope guide you throughout this spiritual journey and continue to protect you and your families.”

In his address to the Arabic-speaking pilgrims, the Pope emphasized that “Christians are urged to embrace the love of God and their neighbors, enabling them to experience genuine peace and joy.”

Forthcoming General Audiences

On Wednesday, December 24, the General Audience will be canceled in observance of Christmas Eve.

A Jubilee Audience is scheduled for Saturday, December 20, while the subsequent General Audience will take place on December 31, marking the final day of the year.

The most recent General Audience held on New Year's Eve occurred 50 years ago in 1975, under the leadership of Pope St. Paul VI.