Pope Francis called upon Palestinian and Israeli leaders to join him at the Vatican to talk peace, offering the invitation at an outdoor Mass in Manger Square, the birthplace of Jesus Christ. 

"In this, the birthplace of the Prince of Peace, I wish to invite you, President Mahmoud Abbas, together with Israeli President Shimon Peres, to join me in heartfelt prayer to God for the gift of peace," Francis said. 

CNN is reporting both sides have accepted the invitation to visit the pontiff's home next month, with Israeli President Peres' office issuing a statement reiterating the administration's support of "any attempts to progress the cause of peace."

Francis caused a stir earlier yesterday by advocating for a two-state solution and making an impromptu visit at Separation Wall, the concrete barrier that separates Israel from the West Bank.

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