Pope Francis has urged Vatican officials to refrain from gossip and backbiting, delivering a stern message during his annual Christmas address to staff on Saturday. The pontiff, who recently turned 88 and appeared congested, encouraged humility and self-reflection during the holiday season.

Francis emphasized the importance of fostering a harmonious and joyful community, calling on Vatican staff to abandon malicious speech. “A church community thrives in humility, avoiding harmful thoughts and negative talk about others,” he said. “Gossip damages social bonds, poisons hearts, and leads nowhere. As people often say: Gossip amounts to nothing.”

Highlighting the dangers of workplace negativity, Francis cautioned against the destructive effects of rumors and urged his audience to heed his warning.

Over the years, the Pope's Christmas addresses have become occasions for self-reflection and correction within the Vatican. In 2014, he famously listed 15 spiritual “ailments” affecting Vatican officials, including hypocrisy, greed, and “spiritual Alzheimer’s.” In 2022, he warned of an “elegant demon” lurking among them, targeting those who adopt a rigid and self-righteous approach to faith.

This year, Francis revisited the recurring issue of gossip and backstabbing, highlighting the toxic environment such behavior can create in workplaces, particularly in insular settings like the Vatican. He reiterated his openness to constructive criticism but insisted it should be expressed directly rather than behind his back.

Francis’ address marks the beginning of his packed Christmas schedule, which is set to be even more demanding this year with the upcoming Vatican Holy Year commencing on Christmas Eve.