Rome , Italy ( CNN ) -- In his traditional Christmas message delivered Saturday to crowds braving winter 's chill , Pope Benedict XVI urged peace in the Middle East and asked for God 's comfort upon beleaguered Christian communities in Iraq and elsewhere in the region . The annual `` To the City and the World address , known in Latin as `` Urbi et Orbi , '' mentioned other global hot spots . The pope wished for security in places overcome by conflict like Somalia , Sudan 's Darfur region , Ivory Coast , Afghanistan and the Korean peninsula and those nations like Haiti that are grappling with the consequences of disease and natural disaster . `` May the light of Christmas shine forth anew in the Land where Jesus was born , and inspire Israelis and Palestinians to strive for a just and peaceful coexistence , '' Benedict said in the speech delivered in 64 languages , from English and Latin to Maori and Maltese . `` May the comforting message of the coming of Emmanuel ease the pain and bring consolation amid their trials to the beloved Christian communities in Iraq and throughout the Middle East , '' he said . Violence targeting Christians in Iraq in recent months forced some Iraqi churches to tone down Christmas observances , even canceling Christmas Mass . Many fear an exodus of Christians from that part of the world . In his message of hope , Benedict also prayed for the perseverance of Christians in communist China . `` May the birth of the Saviour strengthen the spirit of faith , patience and courage of the faithful of the Church in mainland China , that they may not lose heart through the limitations imposed on their freedom of religion and conscience but , persevering in fidelity to Christ and his Church , may keep alive the flame of hope , '' he said . Tens of thousands of people clutched umbrellas under drizzle and rain to hear the 83-year-old pontiff at St. Peter 's Square in Vatican City . `` May the birth of the Saviour open horizons of lasting peace and authentic progress for the peoples of Somalia , Darfur and Cote d'Ivoire ( Ivory Coast ) ; may it promote political and social stability in Madagascar ; may it bring security and respect for human rights in Afghanistan and in Pakistan ; may it encourage dialogue between Nicaragua and Costa Rica ; and may it advance reconciliation on the Korean peninsula , '' he said . This year 's Christmas festivities appeared uneventful compared to last year when a woman jumped a barrier and lunged at the pope during Christmas Eve Mass . Benedict was quickly helped to his feet by his aides and not injured in the incident . The service resumed as the woman was detained by Vatican police and taken to a mental institution .
Benedict prays for peace in the Middle East and in beleaguered Christian communities . He mentions conflict zones and lands devastated by natural disaster . Tens of thousands brave the rain to hear the annual papal address in Vatican City .