Catholics and Protestants celebrate Christmas today

Catholics and Protestants celebrate Christmas today, the Gregorian calendar. And Pope Benedict XVI during Christmas Mass in St. Peter's in Vatican criticized the commercial approach to the holiday. He stressed that the surface gloss lies the true meaning of the Holy Nativity.The pontiff said the Christmas sermon, and addressed the faithful who came on the eve of this festive evening in the main church of the Roman Catholic Church. He regretted that today was the Christmas holiday shopping, for the luster that people do not notice the request of the Lord in humility and simplicity."Today, Christmas has become a commercial holiday. Bright Lights celebration overshadow the true meaning of Christmas and the mystery of God's humility," - said Benedict XVI, and reminded that Jesus calls all to humility and simplicity. "Let us ask our Lord to help us see the truth behind the surface glitter of Christmas, and find true joy," - called on the pontiff, reports news agency RBC.Pope added that the people who celebrate Christmas in poverty are not forgotten.The pontiff urged all believers to be humble as Jesus himself was born poor, defenseless, and surrounded by violence. Also, Pope Benedict XVI condemned the violence, which is increasingly evident in our world. "We ask you to make a stick tormentors, his overcoat soaked with blood, and lumbering boots of soldiers have been burned and that peace reign on earth" - asked Benedict XVI, RIA Novosti reported.This year's schedule of Christmas ceremonies little changed, paying attention to the age of Pope. The liturgy in St. Peter's began at 22:00 local time and not at midnight, as was done previously.This will allow the 84-year-old Benedict XVI before complete mass and rejuvenate before the traditional solemn appeal to the faithful Urbi et Orbi (city and the world), which sounds on Sunday at noon. And yesterday, the pontiff has already kindled in his office window, the traditional "candle of peace and hope."