1 January 2009 - Peace in all lands

On the occasion of the celebration of the World Day of Peace on January 1st, 2009, the Community of Sant'Egidio, promoted, in Rome and in many countries, marches for peace, manifestations, meetings and moments of prayer together with other Associations, Movements and Communities, to give its support to the words of the Pope and to his solicitude for peace in the world, still so divided and marked by the scars of war, injustice, poverty and violences, and to remember all the lands that in the North and in the South of the world are awaiting the end of war, source of suffering for many peoples and "mother" of all poverties, and awaiting for the end of terrorism and hoping in the unity and peace of the human family.

In Rome, a long procession reached St. Peter's Square, where they listened to the words of the pope at the Angelus. At the conclusion, Benedict XVI has addressed his greeting saying: "I joyfully greet the participants in the march entitled "Pacem in terris", promoted by the Community of Sant'Egidio in Rome and in 70 countries around the world. I would like to express my appreciation for the countless initiatives of prayer and reflection on the theme of peace, among which I recall that of the Italian Episcopal Conference, held yesterday evening in Palermo. The new year begins with steps taken by seekers of peace. Thank you for these gestures! May the Lord aid us and give us peace!"

Appointments