Pope Francis ushered in the New Year with an appeal for the faithful to reject abortion, calling for a “firm commitment” to protect and respect life from conception to natural death.

Pope Francis called for the protection of life at New Year’s Day Mass on Wednesday, offering a seemingly anti-abortion message. “Let us entrust this new year to Mary, Mother of God,” Francis said in his homily at Saint Peter’s Basilica.

Pope Francis marked the New Year with a heartfelt call for the faithful to safeguard life at all stages, from conception to natural death. Celebrating Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica, the 88-year-old pontiff urged respect for the dignity of human life and emphasised care for the vulnerable,