Pope attends 'Feast of Immaculate Conception' ceremony in Rome ahead of Christmas

ROME, ITALY - DEC. 8, 2025: Ahead of Christmas, the Catholic Church marked the Feast of the Immaculate Conception of Mary, traditionally celebrated on December 8.The ceremony took place in front of the Virgin Mary statue in Rome, drawing worshippers and dignitaries alike.Pope Leo XIV, head of state of the Vatican and spiritual leader of Catholics, attended the event, highlighting its significance for the global Catholic community.Among the oldest Christian holidays, Christmas is celebrated on Dec. 25 by adherents of the Gregorian calendar, including Protestants, Catholics, and some Orthodox Christians. In contrast, Orthodox Christians who follow the Julian calendar commemorate the event on Jan. 7.(Footage by Riccardo De Luca /Anadolu Agency via Getty Images)