Exploring Human Fraternity: Pope Francis Addresses Second World Meeting Participants
Addressing a crowd of around 350 participants at the second World Meeting on Human Fraternity, Pope Francis delivered a powerful message urging them to continue their efforts in promoting human unity in a fractured world. He emphasized that war is not only a defeat but also a deception.
As the participants gathered in Rome for the event organized by the “Fratelli Tutti Foundation,” they were met with words of encouragement from the Pontiff.
Seeking Alternatives to Conflict
Under the banner of #BeHuman, individuals from various backgrounds such as scientists, economists, businessmen, athletes, and regular citizens congregated in Rome for a two-day discussion on finding alternatives to war and poverty through the principle of fraternity.
The event commenced with a Peace Roundtable on Friday, bringing together 30 Nobel Peace laureates. The Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin inaugurated the roundtable, setting the tone for further discussions during the meeting.
Embracing Compassion for Peace
Welcoming the participants, Pope Francis highlighted the importance of compassion, referencing the parable of the Good Samaritan as a symbol of genuine human coexistence. He emphasized the need for mutual understanding and empathy to bridge divides and foster peace.
As the attendees prepared for thematic discussions in the following days, the Pontiff encouraged them to continue their silent efforts in sowing seeds of peace and fraternity. He praised the Nobel laureates for their contributions to the Declaration on Human Fraternity and their newly crafted “Charter of Humanity.”
Cultivating a Spirit of Fraternity
Pope Francis stressed the significance of fostering a spirit of fraternity and promoting multilateralism through diplomatic actions. He reiterated that war only leads to defeat and deception, calling for a shift towards prioritizing the peace of hearts to achieve lasting political peace.
Learning from Children
In his concluding remarks, the Pope invited the participants to learn from children as symbols of innocence and purity. He emphasized the importance of embracing simplicity and love, echoing the teachings of the Gospel.
The Meeting will culminate with a roundtable dedicated to children, followed by a concert in St. Peter’s Square, symbolizing the unity and harmony sought by all attendees.
By Lisa Zengarini
