Pope Leo to send message to Assisi peace meeting as thousands expected

ROME-- Thousands are expected to gather in Assisi from Sunday to Tuesday for an International peace meeting bringing together religious leaders and representatives of culture and politics, the Community of Sant ’Egidio said.

  The three-day event, entitled “Unarmed and Disarming Peace”, also marks the 40^th anniversary of the historic prayer meeting convened by John Paul II in Assisi in 1986.

  Pope Leo XIV will not be attending in person on medical advice following his recent operation for lung cancer but will send a message to participants during the closing ceremony. 

  In a statement released by the Holy See Press Office, the pontiff believed that the “spirit of Assisi”, dialogue and the search for word and gestures of peace were valuable resources in an era of conflict.

  The meeting opens on Oct. 25 at the Umbria Fiere exhibition center, followed by 24 forums covering issues including disarmament, climate change, migration, democracy and international solidarity.

  The gathering will conclude on Oct. 27 with a ceremony involving religious leaders in the lower square of St. Francis in Assisi.

aje