Welcome to the Vatican on this auspicious day, 19 July 2024!
To His Most Reverend Excellency, Bishop NICOLÒ ANSELMI of Rimini
Your Eminence,
As we prepare for the 45th Meeting for Friendship among Peoples, the Holy Father extends warm greetings and best wishes to all participants, organizers, volunteers, and attendees. The theme of this event, “If we are not after the essence, then what are we after?”, serves as a poignant reminder of our shared responsibility.
Finding Meaning in Turbulent Times
In a world grappling with numerous challenges, the quest for the essence of life and reality becomes increasingly vital. Our era is marred by crises that often leave us feeling helpless, apathetic, and disconnected from the true purpose of our existence. In such moments, the decision to seek the essential becomes paramount.
A Call to Deep Reflection and Spiritual Connection
Pope Francis encourages us to passionately explore the beauty of life and tackle profound questions, echoing the sentiments of Don Luigi Giussani on the loss of passion and the yearning for authentic living. As we confront wars, injustices, environmental catastrophes, and societal shifts, it’s crucial to pause and ponder: what gives life meaning amidst chaos?
Since the early days of his papacy, Pope Francis has urged us to view the struggles of our time as invitations for introspection, leading to a deeper connection with God and a profound understanding of ourselves, our neighbors, and the world around us.
The Essence of Life: Embracing Love
We are called to become seekers of the essential, shedding the burdens that weigh us down and discovering that the core of our existence lies in love. This essential truth — that we are beloved — forms the foundation of genuine joy and meaningful relationships.
Keeping Faith in Christ Amidst Adversity
According to Pope Francis, faith in Jesus Christ is the essence that uplifts us in challenging times and provides an unshakeable anchor amidst life’s storms. Without this faith, our lives would be adrift, vulnerable to the whims of uncertainty.
Returning to Jesus as the essence of our lives isn’t an escape from reality but a gateway to fully engage with the world, meet its challenges head-on, and spread love and compassion without fear. Our faith in Christ empowers us to be agents of change and instruments of peace and solidarity.
As we look forward to the upcoming Meeting, may its diverse offerings inspire us to seek the essential and become passionate proclaimers of the Gospel, fostering liberation and transformation in humanity. Pope Francis sends his blessings to all involved and requests your prayers.
Alongside the Holy Father’s well-wishes, I extend my sincere regards to
Your Most Reverend Excellency, Pietro Cardinal ParolinSecretary of State
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Holy See Press Office Bulletin, 19 August 2024
