Every Sept. 21 is International Day of Peace. It's a day the United Nations has dedicated to fortifying ideals of peace, through observing 24 hours of non-violence and ceasefire.
Throughout his pontificate, Pope Francis hasn't stopped calling for reflection on this value, with the goal of building lasting peace. He has asked not to trivialize the concept of peace.
DO NOT TRIVIALIZE CONCEPT OF PEACE
POPE FRANCIS
April 15, 2020
One tends to think peace means calm, harmony, internal serenity. This definition is incomplete and cannot be universalized, because in life, restlessness can be an important moment for growth. Many times, the Lord plants restlessness in us, so we can draw closer to Him and find Him.
PEACE IS EVERYONE'S RESPONSIBILITY
Pope Francis has also said everyone is responsible for caring for others, a duty that has existed since the creation of the world, and that is the basis for peace.
POPE FRANCIS
Sept. 07, 2013
When man thinks only of himself, of his own interests and places himself in the center, when he permits himself to be captivated by the idols of dominion and power, when he puts himself in God's place, then all relationships are broken and everything is ruined; then the door opens to violence, indifference and conflict.
PEACE REQUIRES COURAGE
Pope Francis said more courage is needed to look for peace than to declare war. He has asked global leaders to respect treaties and avoid provocations. He has also remembered victims of war.
POPE FRANCIS
June 08, 2014
Many, too many of these sons have fallen as innocent victims of war and violence, plants ripped out in full bloom. It's our duty not to let their sacrifice be in vain. May their memory instill in us the courage of peace.
Avoid trivializing peace, responsibility and courage. That's what the pope proposes, to awaken humanity to embrace fraternity as a fundamental part of the future.
Daniel Díaz Vizzi
Translation: CT
