Pope Leo XIV celebrated the first Christmas since his election by denouncing the suffering of people of Gaza – taking shelter in tents from the “rain, wind and cold” – and by calling for the guns to fall silent in Ukraine.

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.

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 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.