Pope Leo XIV Calls for Peace Through Mary
Pope Leo XIV sent a message to the meeting titled 'Mary, a Path of Dialogue and Peace for the Mediterranean,' organized by the Pontifical International Marian Academy and the Order of Friars Minor. The event began on Oc…
Pope Leo XIV sent a message to the meeting titled 'Mary, a Path of Dialogue and Peace for the Mediterranean,' organized by the Pontifical International Marian Academy and the Order of Friars Minor. The event began on October 27 and concluded on October 29 in Perugia and Assisi. The Pope's message emphasized the role of the Virgin Mary in facilitating dialogue and peace.
In his message, signed by Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Vatican Secretary of State, Pope Leo XIV highlighted the importance of looking to Mary as a model of faith and obedience. He stated that Mary serves as a model of listening and welcome, which are crucial for genuine dialogue and a shared journey toward peace. The Pope expressed this hope, emphasizing fraternity and cooperation as essential to finding elements that contribute to personal and community growth.
The meeting was held in collaboration with several entities, including the Dicastery for Interreligious Dialogue and the Dicastery for Promoting Christian Unity. Twelve Marian shrines around the world were also involved, including Notre-Dame de Santa Cruz in Oran, Algeria; Notre-Dame de la Garde in Marseille, France; the Basilica of the Annunciation in Nazareth; and Our Lady of Lebanon in Harissa, Lebanon.
The organizers expressed the belief that Mary of Nazareth can act as a point of reference for different cultures and religions in their shared quest for peace. They noted an urgent need to halt conflicts, heal wounds, promote reconciliation, and engage in meaningful dialogue, underscoring the value of Mary's intercession in these efforts. The meeting also celebrated the 40th anniversary of the 'Spirit of Assisi' event.
