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
An altar boy lights a candle before the Christmas Eve mass led by Pope Francis, at St Peter's Basilica at the Vatican. Reuters
Pope Francis kisses a statue of Baby Jesus as he celebrates the Christmas Eve Mass in St Peter's Basilica at the Vatican. AP
Cardinals attend the Christmas Eve mass led by Pope Francis in St Peter's Basilica at the Vatican. AP
A cardinal attends the Christmas Eve mass led by Pope Francis in St Peter's Basilica at the Vatican. Reuters
Pope Francis celebrates a mass on Christmas Eve at St Peter's basilica in the Vatican. AFP
Pope Francis carries a statue of Baby Jesus during the Christmas Eve mass in St Peter's Basilica at the Vatican. Reuters
Children walk past a statue of baby Jesus at the end of the Christmas Eve Mass celebrated by Pope Francis in St Peter's Basilica at the Vatican. AP