Vatican City: The Paul VI Hall at the Vatican was filled with music, joy and emotion on Saturday as more than three thousand poor, homeless and vulnerable people gathered for the annual Christmas Concert with the Poor. For the first time since the event began, a Pope attended in person, making this year’s celebration especially memorable.

Pope Leo XIV sat among the guests of honour, who came from many countries and backgrounds. The concert featured performances by world famous singer Michael Bublé, the Nova Opera Orchestra and the Choir of the Diocese of Rome, directed by Monsignor Marco Frisina. The programme included sacred music, classical pieces and familiar Christmas songs. A special moment came when Bublé performed Ave Maria, a song personally requested by Pope.

In his address,

See Full Page