ADDRESS OF HIS HOLINESS POPE FRANCIS
ON THE OCCASION OF THE LIGHTING OF THE CHRISTMAS TREE IN GUBBIO

Sunday, 7 December 2014

Good evening, I wish you a holy and happy Christmas!

In turning on the light of the Christmas tree, we wish for the light of Christ to be in us. A Christmas without light is not Christmas. Let there be light in the soul, in the heart; let there be forgiveness to others; let there be no hostilities or darkness.... Let there be the beautiful light of Jesus. This is my wish for all of you, when you turn on the light of the Christmas tree.

Many thanks for your gift, it is beautiful. Also I give to you my warmest wishes, peace and happiness.

If you have something dark in your soul, ask the Lord for forgiveness. Christmas is a great opportunity to cleanse the soul! Do not fear, the priest is merciful, forgiving all in the name of God, because God forgives everything.

May there be light be in your hearts, in your families, in your cities. And now, with this wish, let us turn on the light.

Blessed be God Almighty, the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit.

Happy Christmas and pray for me!