Pope offers gentle critique of Vatican culture in Christmas greeting reminiscent of past

Pope Leo XIV called on Vatican officials to set aside personal ambitions and power struggles during his Christmas address to the Roman Curia on Monday, continuing a tradition of papal holiday critiques established by his predecessor, Pope Francis.

“Is it possible to be friends in the Roman Curia?” the American pontiff asked the assembled cardinals and bishops who make up the Vatican’s administrative body. “To have relationships of genuine fraternal friendship?”

The question itself revealed Leo’s awareness of the challenging workplace dynamics that continue to plague the Holy See’s bureaucracy, an environment that Pope Francis regularly criticized in stronger terms during his 12-year pontificate. While Leo’s approach was noticeably gentler than Francis’ past descriptions of “spiritual Alzheimers,” the “cancer” of cliques, and the “corruption” of ambition, his message still urged Vatican officials toward self-examination and reform.

“At times this bitterness finds its way among us as well, when, after many years of service in the Curia, we observe with disappointment that certain dynamics — linked to the exercise of power, the desire to prevail, or the pursuit of personal interests — are slow to change,” Leo acknowledged.

The Pope, who worked closely with Francis and spent two years in the Vatican before his election, emphasized the importance of authentic relationships within the Curia’s administrative structure. “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, preventing resentment and dissatisfaction.”

This approach aligns with Leo’s emerging reputation as a peacemaker focused on unity, a potential counterbalance to some of the divisions that emerged during Francis’ tenure, which occasionally alienated conservatives and elements within the Vatican bureaucracy.

Beyond internal Vatican matters, Leo expanded his message to address global concerns, calling on Church officials to work for broader reconciliation. “In a world wounded by discord, violence and conflict, where we also witness a growth in aggression and anger, often exploited by both the digital sphere and politics, Christmas invites everyone to work for peace and universal fraternity,” he said.

The Christmas address came alongside another significant initiative announced Monday, as Leo sought to address the worldwide decline in Catholic priests. In a document marking the 60th anniversary of two Vatican decrees on priestly formation, the Pope acknowledged the “crisis” of dwindling vocations and proposed several measures to support “a joyful man and a joyful priest.”

Vatican statistics paint a concerning picture for the Catholic Church’s clergy numbers. In 2023, the global count of priests fell to 406,996, a decrease of 734 from the previous year. This continues a downward trend that began in 2015, contrasting sharply with 2013 figures that showed 415,348 priests worldwide with an annual increase of 1,035. Only Africa and Asia currently show growth in priestly vocations.

Leo identified several factors contributing to this decline, including the impact of clergy abuse scandals, isolation, and economic challenges. His recommendations include improved seminary training to help priests persevere in their vocation, noting the “painful reality” of those who abandon their ministry shortly after ordination.

Drawing from his experience as a member of the Augustinian religious order, which emphasizes communal living, Leo suggested bishops consider housing options that would reduce priestly isolation. He also called for “economic equalization” between priests serving wealthy and impoverished parishes.

“It is true that the reasons for this crisis can often be varied and manifold, and depend specifically on the socio-cultural context,” Leo wrote. “At the same time, we must have the courage to make strong and liberating proposals to young people” that might encourage them to consider priesthood as a vocation.

As Leo completes his first year as pontiff, these dual messages—addressing internal Vatican culture and the broader challenges facing the Church’s clergy—signal his priorities for institutional renewal while maintaining a more conciliatory tone than his predecessor.