The U.S.-born pope also lamented the situation for migrants and refugees who "traverse the American continent."

Renewed calls for a royal commission into antisemitism, Pope Leo the 14th urges an end to fighting in Gaza and Ukraine in his first Christmas address, The fourth Ashes Test to get underway.

Pope Leo has signalled his intention to uphold the reformist vision of his predecessor, Francis, during his annual Christmas address to Vatican cardinals. Leo, the first American pontiff, lauded Francis’s efforts to foster a more inclusive global Catholic Church, pledging to continue his legacy.

The document, “A Fidelity That Generates the Future,” reflects on two decrees of the Second Vatican Council on priests — both promulgated in 1965.

After being appointed Archbishop of New York, Timothy Dolan went on to become one of the most influential leaders in the Catholic Church.

Pope Leo XIV’s upcoming extraordinary consistory of cardinals in January will be a pivotal but challenging landmark as he seeks advice on matters of broad and key relevance in church life and governance,