Christmas celebrations have taken place around the globe as people worldwide celebrated the birth of Jesus Christ.

Masses of Catholic followers were seen gathered at the Vatican in Rome, Italy to celebrate the holiday.

Pope Benedict XVI, 84, criticized Christmas consumerism during the traditional Christmas Eve Mass at St. Peter's Basilica in Rome. The Pope urged worshippers to "see through the superficial glitter of this season and to discover behind it the child in the stable in Bethlehem."

Various celebrations were held in Bethlehem, Palestine, the birthplace of Jesus.

American troops based in Afghanistan were also in the holiday spirit as Christmas services were held at the bases.