It's Christmas Day and Slovenia's catholic bishops highlight the importance of unity. Midnight masses were held last night across the country.
At the Vatican, Pope Francis delivered his Urbi et Orbi message, saying the world has become desensitised and is ignoring huge tragedies, pointed to ongoing crises in Syria, Yemen, Iraq, and in other areas of Asia, Africa and Europe. Unlike last year, this year the Pope gave his speech outdoors, in front of thousands of Catholic faithful gathered in St Peter's Square at the Vatican. Those at the square said they wished for a more liberating 2022 and a return to normal, unlike what we have today.
This year, despite surging Covid-19 cases and Israeli travel restrictions, thousands also gathered for Christmas masses in Bethlehem, the birthplace of Jesus.