Sergio Mattarella calls for peace at Saint Francis 800th anniversary

Italian President Sergio Mattarella and Cardinal Matteo Zuppi issued an appeal for global peace during celebrations in Assisi marking the 800th anniversary of the death of Saint Francis. Speaking from the Basilica of Assisi, Mattarella criticized current global conflicts and the practice of blessing weapons in the name of religion, stating, “there is no greater fault than killing other men in the name of God.”

Mattarella and the Italian Episcopal Conference (CEI) emphasized three pillars of the Franciscan legacy for the modern era: a rejection of the “idolatry of money” to combat inequality, respect for creation in response to the climate crisis, and a commitment to fraternity. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni also attended, describing Saint Francis as a figure who forged the identity of the Italian people.

During the event, the Umbria Region presented President Mattarella and other regional presidents with ceramic gifts created by students at the Serafico center in Assisi, a specialized socio-sanitary facility for individuals with complex disabilities. The gifts included ceramic houses and Tau symbols, representing the Franciscan spiritual tradition.