'Our hearts are in Bethlehem'

Pope calls tor release of hostages, end to war

- 

VATICAN CITY - Recalling Jesus' birth in a stable in Bethlehem, Pope Francis said that "the clash of arms even today" prevents Jesus "from finding room in the world."

The pontiff presided over the Christmas Eve mass on Sunday, attended by about 6,500 faithful who took their place amid the splendor of St.

Peter's Basilica behind rows of white-clad prelates.

"Our hearts are in Bethlehem, where the Prince of Peace is once more rejected by the futile logic of war," the pope said, referring to the war sparked by Hamas' deadly Oct. 7 rampage and hostage-taking in Israel.

During his annual Christmas Day mass yesterday, the pope called for the release of hostages and an end to the war in Gaza.

"My heart grieves for the victims of the abominable attack of 7 October, and I reiterate my urgent appeal for the liberation of those still being held hostage," he said during the "Urbi and Orbi" 

blessing. "I plead for an end to the military operations with their appalling harvest of innocent civilian victims, and call for a solution to the desperate humanitarian situation by an opening to the provision of humanitarian aid." As mass began on Christmas Eve, a statuette of the Christ child was unveiled before the altar bedecked in greenery and white flowers, and children representing all corners of the globe placed flowers around a gilded throne.

Francis, draped in white robes, led the mass standing at the foot of one of St. Peter's grand columns.