NPR News Now: December 25, 2024, 2 PM EST
Released on December 25, 2024
Global Christmas Celebrations Amidst Conflict
Pope Francis Addresses the Faithful
At [00:19], Windsor Johnston introduces the day's first major story: millions around the world are celebrating Christmas. Thousands of Christians gathered in St. Peter's Square as Pope Francis delivered his annual Christmas Day address. The Pope greeted the faithful with a heartfelt message: “Carrisorelli, Carri, Fratelli, Buon Natale” at [00:40].
This address also marks the commencement of the 2025 Holy Year, anticipated to attract approximately 32 million pilgrims to Rome.
Somber Christmas in Bethlehem
Contrasting the global festivities, Christmas celebrations in Bethlehem have been canceled for the second consecutive year due to the ongoing war in Gaza. NPR's Carrie Kahn reports from Bethlehem at [01:08], highlighting the stark difference from previous years:
"Usually, Bethlehem is full of lights, these amazing decorations, a huge tree in the center of Manger Square, and there are crowds, crowds of tourists and pilgrims. This year it is empty, barren. You know, I was here last year, and if it's possible, it feels even more empty and more somber."
Hanukkah Observances in Jerusalem
In Jerusalem, commemorations took on a more somber tone as families affected by the Gaza conflict attended the lighting of the first Hanukkah candle at the Western Mall Plaza. The ceremony served as a poignant gathering for those who have lost loved ones or been kidnapped by Hamas, reflecting the intertwined nature of religious observances and regional conflicts.
Humanitarian Crisis in Syria
WHO Seeks Urgent Funding for Syrian Health Needs
The World Health Organization (WHO) is appealing for nearly $57 million to address the dire health situation in Syria. Lisa Schlein reports at [02:01] that the funds are crucial for strengthening trauma care, providing essential health services, and preventing disease outbreaks over the next six months.
Christina Betke, WHO's representative in Syria, emphasizes the severity of the situation:
"Syria's humanitarian needs remain immense and immediate," she stated at [02:21]. Schlein further highlights the strained health infrastructure, noting:
"The health infrastructure is severely strained, and we saw in just three weeks during this escalation, 36 attacks on health care have been reported and over half of the country's hospitals are non-functional." [02:21]
The prolonged civil war has left millions displaced, with many suffering from mental health disorders and requiring psychosocial support.
Conflict in Ukraine Intensifies During Christmas
President Zelensky Condemns Russian Attacks
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky denounced Russia's recent assault on Ukraine's energy infrastructure as "inhumane" at [02:47]. BBC's Will Vernon reports that instead of celebrating Christmas morning peacefully, Ukrainians faced sirens, explosions, and destruction as Russia launched a barrage of cruise and ballistic missiles targeting Ukrainian cities.
This unexpected aggression has marred what is traditionally a time of joy and family gatherings, deepening the crisis for the Ukrainian populace.
The Health Benefits of Kindness
King Charles Honors Medical Workers
In a touching Christmas address, King Charles dedicated his speech to the British medical workers who cared for him and Princess Catherine during their cancer treatments. Speaking from the chapel of a former hospital in central London, now repurposed for community use, the King's message underscored the importance of compassion and gratitude.
NPR's Marie Godoy explores recent research linking acts of kindness to improved personal health at [03:49]. Studies indicate that engaging in volunteer work or helping neighbors can enhance balance, mobility, and brain health in older adults. Tara Grunewald of Chapman University explains:
"And then much of the work that I'm interested in others is also showing that folks live longer. So there is that ultimate benefit of longevity from giving and contributing to others." [04:09]
Additional research mentioned by Godoy notes that routine volunteering may reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, highlighting the mutual benefits of altruistic behavior.
Tensions Over the Panama Canal
Protests Against Donald Trump's Demands
Protests erupted in Panama as President-elect Donald Trump demanded the return of control over the Panama Canal to the United States. Dozens of demonstrators gathered outside the US Embassy, vocally opposing Trump's stance. They argued that the canal should remain under Panamanian sovereignty, countering Trump's claim that:
"Panama charges the US too much to use the waterway." [04:28]
These tensions reflect ongoing disputes over international waterways and sovereignty, contributing to strained US-Panama relations.
Market Update
Wall Street Closure
In a brief financial update, it was announced that Wall Street remains closed for the Christmas Day holiday. Trading is set to resume the following day, providing a momentary pause for investors and traders alike.
This summary provides an overview of the key news topics discussed in the NPR News Now episode released on December 25, 2024. From global holiday celebrations affected by conflict to humanitarian crises and the intersection of kindness and health, the broadcast offers a comprehensive snapshot of current events.