A solemn ceremony in Assisi to celebrate Saint Francis, on October 4th, on the eighth centenary of the death of the patron saint of Italy.
The function, presided over by Cardinal Matteo Zuppi , president of the CEI, was also attended by the President of the Republic Sergio Mattarella , welcomed by the Undersecretary Alfredo Mantovano, the President of the Umbria Region Stefania Proietti and the Mayor of Assisi Valter Stoppini.
"Francis's poverty, so sought and desired, was a concrete break with the idolatry of money; his humility was not naive; it arose from a demanding thirst for truth; his obedience was not submissiveness, but a laborious, thoughtful search for the higher reasons for the unity of the Christian people and the Church. Remembering Francis's teachings today means highlighting some of the decisively timely foundations of his preaching: the dignity of every person, respect for creation, and peace," Mattarella said in his speech after the service.
«Today – added the Head of State – terrible conflicts are bloodying many parts of the world, and in some places weapons are even being blessed again and armies are being placed under religious insignia: Francis teaches us that there is no greater sin than killing other men in the name of God . We would not do justice to the saint of Assisi if his figure were limited to that of an ecologist, pacifist and charitable worker ante litteram».
"In these times marked by senseless and cruel wars, by so much violence, manipulation, and arrogance, as Leo XIV said a few days ago, the hope is that the sun of Francis can illuminate the world , convert minds hardened by hatred, and point the way to peace, hope, and serene, fraternal coexistence," the president concluded.
Pope Leo XIV also remembered the saint of Assisi during the Angelus: "The charism of Saint Francis still bears fruit today, after eight centuries : this is witnessed not only by the large and lively Franciscan family, but also by the many gifts that his spiritual legacy spreads among the People of God. Therefore, as we celebrate the Franciscan Jubilee Year," the Pontiff added, "let us perseveringly ask for the gift of peace and let us sincerely commit ourselves to building harmony among peoples."
(Unioneonline)
