In a heartwarming nod to tradition, Pope Leo XIV embraced the festive spirit on Monday by participating in a cherished Roman ritual. On the feast day of December 8, which traditionally marks the onset of the Christmas season, the Pope offered prayers for peace at the Madonna statue near the iconic Spanish Steps in Rome.

Amid a chilly backdrop, thousands of admirers gathered to witness the American pope’s first visit to the statue. They were rewarded with a glimpse of Pope Leo as he traveled through Rome’s historic districts in the popemobile, which was festively adorned for the holiday shopping season.

The day held a special significance as the association of shop owners from Via Condotti, a prestigious shopping street that stretches from the Spanish Steps and boasts high-end brands like Bulgari, Hermes, and Prada, bestowed a unique honor upon the Pope.

Clad in his ceremonial red mozzetta, Pope Leo placed a generous bouquet of white roses at the statue’s base and offered a succinct prayer. He took this moment to reflect on the millions of pilgrims who have journeyed to Rome this year, drawn by the Holy Year pilgrimage that led them to the Holy Door of St. Peter’s Basilica.

In his message, Pope Leo expressed hope that, “After the Holy Doors, may other doors now open to homes and oases of peace where dignity can flourish once more, where nonviolence can be taught, and the art of reconciliation can be learned.” His words resonated as a powerful call for peace and unity during this festive season.

Leo will be presiding over his first Christmas as pope this year, and already has introduced one novelty. The Dec. 24 Christmas Eve Mass, which had been moved up earlier and earlier in recent years to accommodate older popes, this year is due to begin at the 10 p.m. usual start time.

Leo will have just a few hours of sleep before celebrating Christmas Day Mass in St. Peter’s Basilica the next morning, followed by his return to the loggia – where he first appeared as pope May 8 – to deliver his Urbi et Orbi speech (to the city and the world).

He’ll preside over evening prayers known as vespers on New Year’s Eve and then a New Year’s Day Mass and blessing Jan. 1.

The Christmas season comes to an end with Epiphany Mass on Jan. 6, which also marks the official closing of the 2025 Holy Year and the shutting of the Holy Door to the basilica.

Usually Holy Years, also known as Jubilees, are held every 25 years, but Leo has already announced the next one, to be celebrated in an off year – 2033 – to commemorate the 2,000th anniversary of the crucifixion and resurrection of Christ.

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