In a significant pre-Christmas address, Pope Leo XIV has gently urged senior figures within the Vatican to set aside personal ambition and power struggles in favour of building genuine communion.
A Tradition of Reflection and Reform
The American pontiff delivered his remarks on Monday 22 December 2025 to the cardinals and bishops of the Roman Curia, the central administrative body of the Holy See. His words continued a tradition established by his predecessor, Pope Francis, of using the annual Christmas greeting as a moment for frank reflection on the internal culture of the Vatican's bureaucracy.
While his tone was notably more constructive and less biting than Francis's famous critiques—which included references to "spiritual Alzheimer's" and the "cancer" of cliques—the underlying message was clear. Pope Leo, who worked within the Vatican for two years prior to his election, acknowledged that negative dynamics persist.
A Call for Genuine Fraternity
"Is it possible to be friends in the Roman Curia?" Pope Leo asked his audience directly. "To have relationships of genuine fraternal friendship?"
He observed that, despite years of service, certain harmful patterns linked to the exercise of power, the desire to prevail, and the pursuit of personal interests are slow to change. This, he suggested, can lead to bitterness and disappointment among those who serve.
"Amid daily toil, it is a grace to find trustworthy friends, where masks fall away, no one is used or sidelined, genuine support is offered, and each person’s worth and competence are respected," the Pope stated, framing such friendship as an antidote to resentment.
Building Peace Within and Beyond
Following the sometimes tumultuous 12-year pontificate of Francis, which alienated some conservative and bureaucratic factions, Leo has generally positioned himself as a peacemaker focused on unity. His Christmas message extended the call for harmony beyond the Vatican walls.
"In a world wounded by discord, violence and conflict, where we also witness a growth in aggression and anger... Christmas invites everyone to work for peace and universal fraternity," he declared, implicitly urging his collaborators to model this behaviour.
By continuing this tradition of annual critique, albeit in a gentler key, Pope Leo XIV signals his awareness of the Curia's internal challenges while encouraging a path forward built on respect, friendship, and a shared focus on the Church's mission.
