Pontiff asks faithful to show solidarity with those affected by war, poverty and slavery

On Christmas Eve, Pope Francis addressed his thoughts to those suffering in regions such as Palestine, Israel and Ukraine. During the Angelus prayer, the Pope stressed the importance of solidarity with those affected by war and called on the faithful to think of those in need due to poverty, hunger and slavery.

In front of a crowd of around 15,000 faithful gathered in St Peter's Square, the Pontiff urged simplicity in celebrating Christmas, without waste and sharing with those in need. He warned against confusing the celebration with consumerism and stressed the importance of celebrating in a spirit of generosity and compassion, reports dw.com.

Pope Francis is due to preside at Christmas Eve Mass in St Peter's Basilica, marking the central moment of the feast for Catholic faithful around the world.