VATICAN CITY, Dec. 25 (UPI) -- Thousands of people gathered in Vatican City to hear Pope Benedict XVI deliver his first Christmas Eve mass at St. Peter's Basilica.
His message of Middle East peace was broadcast live to 46 nations.
"We wish to pray for peace in the Holy Land," the BBC quoted him as saying.
"On this night, when we look towards Bethlehem, let us pray in a special way for the birthplace of our redeemer and for the men and women who live and suffer there," he continued. "We wish to pray for peace in the Holy Land. Look O Lord, upon this corner of the earth, your homeland, which is so very dear to you. Let your light shine upon it! Let it know peace!"
Prior to delivering his homily, the Pope appeared at the study window of his Vatican apartment overlooking the square and the thousands gathered there and lit a candle for world peace.
