Thousands of people flocked to St. Peter’s Basilica for the ceremony, while many more followed the proceedings on giant video screens in St Peter’s Square, on a mild but wet winter’s night.
“This child (Jesus) has ignited the light of goodness in men and has given them strength to overcome the tyranny of might,” the pontiff said in his homily.
Midnight Mass
Part of the significance of Christmas night is “simply joy at God’s closeness” to mankind, he said.
“But this joy is also prayer: Lord, make your promise come fully true. Break the rods of the oppressors. Burn the tramping boots. Let the time of the garments rolled in blood come to an end.” He cited the words of the Prophet Isaiah: “Fulfill the prophecy that ‘of peace there will be no end.” The homily was followed by a few moments of silent reflection.
Midnight Mass
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