The Pope gives Christmas Eve mass at the Vatican

Pope Francis has called on those in developed countries to live in a less materialistic fashion during the traditional Christmas Eve Mass.

He also condemned the divide between the rich and poor, saying Jesus's birth in poverty in a stable should give everyone cause for reflection.

He spoke out while leading a service in St Peter's Basilica in the Vatican.

Pope Francis kneels down to pray as he celebrates mass on Christmas Eve, marking the birth of Jesus Christ at St Peter's basilica in Vatican. AFP

More galleries from The National:

[ Christmas Eve mass in Dubai - in pictures ]

[ Christmas in the Middle East - in pictures ]

[ Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed hosts meeting with king of Bahrain - in pictures ]

The Palestinian artists giving new life to the streets of Beit Sahour