In Rome, Catholic faithful have flocked to St. Peter’s Basilica for Pope Francis’ first Christmas Eve midnight mass, in which the pontiff once again preached the importance of humility.
NBC’s Martin Fletcher reports that Pope Francis offered a traditional lesson of light and love during his first Christmas Eve midnight mass in St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican.
Pope Francis reiterated the importance of reaching out to the downtrodden, using the shepherds who were the first to hear of Jesus’ birth as an example.
Quoting from the book of Titus, the Pope said that Jesus brought light and grace to the world, and that grace “made salvation possible for the whole human race.
The Pope added that while Jesus embodied light and love, those who hate walk in “darkness.”
Christians all over the world are celebrating Christmas, a holiday that honors the birth of Jesus, whom Christians believe is the son of God.
Christmas is regarded as the most important day of the year for Christians, along with Easter when the death and resurrection of Jesus are celebrated. The Christmas season (called Christmastide) ends on January 6, known as the Epiphany or the twelfth day of Christmas.
The traditions are different from country to country, but they nearly always include a feast, giving gifts or cards, and enjoying church or public festivities such as singing Christmas carols and songs.
