The following is the Holy Father’s greeting, prepared for the participants at the “Christmas Contest 2024”, to be considered as delivered:

Prepared greeting

Dear brothers and sisters, welcome!

I greet the Gravissimum Educationis – Culture for Education Pontifical Foundation, which is committed to spreading the Church’s educational and cultural activities. I especially greet you young people, who have invested your talents in this rather special Contest, which is intended to be an opportunity for human growth.

I would like to recall with you, young singers and musicians who are dedicated to promoting the values of Christmas, that the birth of Jesus was accompanied by a heavenly song, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace among those whom he favours!” (Lk 2:14). The Incarnation of Jesus Christ, who brings true peace to the world – and how much we need it today! – has inspired, over the centuries, countless artists of every language and culture, who have portrayed paths of fraternity in the world.

You are part of this great movement, with your originality, stories and voices, and it is always God’s love, made man in Jesus Christ, that speaks to your hearts.

As young people, in your desire to express your artistic vocation and your human and Christian journey, all of you, in different ways, feel the attraction of the mystery of incarnate love. Moreover, you express it in song and music. In this way, you also sing about hope for those of your peers who have lost it for so many reasons: suffering, illness, war, forced migration, problems in the family, school or with friends. Perhaps some of these young people will be touched by your witness! Yes, we need young people’s talent and creativity, who are motivated not by the idols of money or success but by a passion for beauty, for fraternity, for Jesus who saves and gives meaning to our lives.

Dear friends, I wish you well with your work and your journey! I bless you and ask you, please, to pray for me. Thank you!