In more than 800 cities, the new year will be inaugurated with a step in the right direction: towards Peace in All Lands
“I care! ” Was the message picked up by thousands of people this morning who have joined the Community of Sant’Egidio in a Peace March; expressing their support for Pope Francis’s message for the 49th World Day of Peace “Defeat indifference and Obtain peace.”
In Rome, the march was led by the children in order to emphasize the importance of education of peace and non-violence. Starting from Largo Giovanni XXIII the march ended in St. Peter’s Square to hear the Angelus and receive the blessing of Pope Francis, who spoke kind words and encouragement: “I greet with affection,” said the Pope, “the participants in the event ‘peace in all lands,’ held in Rome and in many countries by the Sant’Egidio Community. Dear friends, I encourage you to continue your commitment in favor of reconciliation and harmony.” (Read full text on the Vatican website)
Marco Impagliazzo, president of the Community, stressed the importance of not forgetting the places wounded by conflict and the need to build peace in homes and at work; in everyday life, by loving people and not just material values.
Similar events were held in many cities in Europe and around the world. A peace movement that wants to send a strong message to the international community: you must leave their homes, overcome fear and say no to war.
Read the message of the Pope for the new year