VATICAN - The announcement of Christmas a “cause for hope for all those whose dignity is offended and violated, because He who was born in Bethlehem came to liberate man from the root of all forms of slavery”

Vatican City (Agenzia Fides) - “The announcement of Christmas is also a light for peoples, for the collective journey of humanity.... To believe in God who wanted to share our story is a constant encouragement to engage in it, even in the midst its contradictions. It is a cause of hope for those whose dignity is offended and violated, because He who was born in Bethlehem came to free man from the root of all slavery.” These are the words of the Pope Benedict XVI's Christmas Message, delivered on Christmas Day, Saturday, 25 December, from the central balcony of St Peter's Basilica before giving his “Urbi et Orbi” Blessing.
Looking at the world situation, the Pope continued: “The light of Christmas shines again in that land where Jesus was born and inspires Israelis and Palestinians to seek a just and peaceful coexistence. The comforting announcement of the coming of Emmanuel soothes the pain and consoles the tested, dear Christian communities in Iraq and throughout the Middle East, giving them comfort and hope for the future and animating the Leaders of Nations to a practical solidarity towards them.”
The Pope also called for international solidarity for those in Haiti who “are still suffering the consequences of the devastating earthquake and the recent outbreak of cholera,” and he urged not to forget the victims of recent natural disasters in Colombia, Venezuela, Guatemala and Costa Rica. Thus he wished “prospects for lasting peace and genuine progress” for the people of Somalia, Darfur and Côte d'Ivoire. The Birth of the Lord “promotes political and social stability in Madagascar; brings security and respect for human rights in Afghanistan and Pakistan; encourages dialogue between Nicaragua and Costa Rica; favours reconciliation on the Korean Peninsula.”
The Pope then continued: “The celebration of the birth of the Redeemer reinforces a spirit of faith, patience and courage in the faithful of the Church in mainland China, not to lose heart because of the limitations on their freedom of religion and of conscience and, persevering in faithfulness to Christ and his Church to keep alive the flame of hope. The love of 'God with us' imparts perseverance to all Christian communities who suffer discrimination and persecution, and inspires political and religious leaders to commit themselves to the full respect of religious freedom for all.” (SL) (Agenzia Fides 28/12/2010)