"Speaking of families, I am worried, a real concern, at least here in Italy: the demographic winter".
Thus the Pope at the Angelus.
"It seems that many have lost the illusion of moving forward with children and many couples prefer to remain without or with only one child. Think about this: it is a tragedy. A few minutes ago I saw in the program 'In his image' how we talked about this serious problem, the demographic winter. Let's do everything possible to regain a conscience to overcome this demographic winter, which goes against our families, against our homeland, and also against our future ".
"In these days I have received messages of good wishes from Rome and from other parts of the world - said Pope Francis at the end of the Angelus -. Unfortunately I cannot answer everyone, but I pray for each one and thank you especially for the prayers that many of you have promised to do. Pray for me, do not forget. Thank you very much ".
"I renew my hope that the contemplation of the Child Jesus, heart and center of the Christmas festivities, may arouse attitudes of fraternity and sharing in families and in the community", said Pope Francis.
"And also to celebrate Christmas a little - he added - it will be good to pay a visit to the nativity scene and the 100 nativity scenes under the colonnade. This will also help us".