Pope Leo XIV greeted the soggy faithful in St. Peter’s Square in both English and Italian and apologized that there wasn’t enough room in the basilica for them all.

VATICAN CITY, Dec 24 (Reuters) - Pope Leo said in a Christmas Eve sermon on Wednesday that the story of Jesus being born in a stable because there was no room at an inn should remind Christians that refusing to help the poor and strangers today is tantamount to rejecting God himself.

From Chicago's Pope to hot dog giveaways, here's a look back at some of the moments in 2025 that could only happen in Chicago.

King Charles has called for unity in diversity and praised ‘spontaneous bravery’ shown in the past year in his Christmas address, as the pontiff made an unusually direct appeal for peace around the world in his sermon overnight.

Pope Leo XIV delivers Christmas message calling for peace in Middle East and Ukraine, urging world leaders to reject violence and embrace dialogue.

Pope Leo XIV blesses a baby during his Wednesday general audience in St. Peter’s Basilica on Aug. 13, 2025, at the Vatican. Due to the heat, the pope gave his address in Paul VI Audience Hall but also greeted pilgrims in other locations. Credit: Vatican Media

Seven months into his papacy, Pope Leo XIV’s Chicago roots have helped frame both his spirituality and priorities.