As the world gears up to celebrate World Tourism Day on 27 September, the Dicastery for Evangelisation has unveiled a powerful message for this year’s theme, “Tourism and Peace”. Led by Archbishop Rino Fisichella, the Dicastery urges a commitment to fostering fraternity and understanding in the midst of global conflicts.

Archbishop Fisichella emphasizes the crucial role that tourism plays in promoting peace through cultural exchange, stating that “the cultural exchange between peoples, which finds a privileged form in tourism, can also turn into a concrete commitment to peace.”

The Impact of Conflict

Recognizing the devastating effects of war on tourism, Archbishop Fisichella highlights the additional poverty faced by communities when tourists are unable to visit. He praises the efforts of priests and laypeople dedicated to enhancing tourism and pilgrimages, despite security challenges, and encourages them to keep the faith alive in the hopes of resuming pilgrimage routes to countries rich in faith and history.

Pope Francis’ Message

The message further echoes Pope Francis’ call for a culture of encounter and openness to the world, emphasizing the potential for tourists to become “messengers of peace” in a global network of fraternity. Looking ahead to the upcoming Jubilee in 2025, Archbishop Fisichella sees it as an opportunity for millions of pilgrims to seek peace and reconciliation through the jubilee indulgence.

As conflicts and challenges persist around the world, Archbishop Fisichella reiterates the urgent need for peace. He asks, echoing Pope Francis, “Is it too much to dream that the weapons will be silenced and stop bringing destruction and death?” In closing, he emphasizes that the unity of tourism and peace, fueled by hope, can be a powerful message for all involved in the tourism industry and those seeking serenity and harmony in their travels.