ASSISI, Italy, OCT. 28, 2011 (Zenit.org).- Here is a translation and presentation of the statement Benedict XVI made to close Thursday’s Day of Reflection, Dialogue and Prayer for Peace and Justice in the World, held in Assisi.
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Illustrious guests, dear friends:
At the end of this intense day, I want to thank you: a heartfelt word of thanks to those who have made possible today’s encounter. We particularly thank those who, once again, have welcomed us: the city of Assisi, the community of this diocese with their bishop, the children of St. Francis, who care for the precious spiritual heritage left us by the Poor Man of Assisi.
As well, thank you to the numerous youth who have made a pilgrimage on foot from St. Mary of the Angels to testify how, among the new generations, there are so many who are committed to overcoming violence and division, and to being promoters of justice and peace.
Today’s event is an image of how the spiritual dimension is a key element in the building of peace. Through this unique pilgrimage we have been able to engage in fraternal dialogue, to deepen our friendship, and to come together in silence and prayer.
After renewing our commitment to peace and exchanging with one another a sign of peace, we feel even more profoundly involved, together with all the men and women from the communities that we represent, in our common human journey.
We are not being separated; we will continue to meet, we will continue to be united in this journey, in dialogue, in the daily building of peace and in our commitment to a better world, a world in which every man and woman and every people can live in accordance with their own legitimate aspirations.
From my heart I thank all of you here present for having accepted my invitation to come to Assisi as pilgrims of truth and peace and I greet each one of you in Saint Francis’ own words: May the Lord grant you peace — «il Signore ti dia pace».
[Original text in Italian and English; translation by ZENIT]
