Can peace be teaching? If we look at the news of wars and the data on the rearmament, not only can you, but you have to. Because peace is not obvious and needs a solid basis in the consciences of all of us to make culture and translate into gestures of hope. He talks to us, in the service on page. 22, Don Andrea Bigalli Telling about a new Research Institute in Social Theology born within the Theological faculty of central Italy.
In the 2024the expenditure for the rearmament of the 27 Member States of the European Union has reached a record level, touching the 343 billion euros. An unprecedented figure, which marks an increase of 19% compared to 2023. And for 2025 there is a further increase, according to the data of theEuropean Defense Agency (EDA).
The logic of the war (and of the generalized rearmament, which almost inevitably leads to it) has also been cleared in our old Europe. Of military actions, today, we speak too much and too easily. But it is not reflected enough (not to mention at all) on the alternative political roads to the war, nor on the construction of a culture of peace: These issues are practically absent in the public debate.
As believersthis situation appeals to us. Speaking to the Italian bishops on June 17th, Pope Leo he said: “The relationship with Christ calls us to develop pastoral attention to the theme of peace».
And he explained, thinking of the parishes, the neighborhoods, the internal areas of the country, on the urban and existential suburbs: «where human and social relationships become difficult and the conflict takes shape, perhaps in a subtle way, one must be visible one Church capable of reconciliation».
For this reason, the pontiff asked that “Each diocese can promote nonviolence education pathsmediation initiatives in local conflicts, reception projects that transform the fear of the other into an opportunity to meet ».
Every community, he said, “It becomes a “house of peace”, where you learn to defuse hostility through dialogue, where justice is practiced and forgiveness is kept».
It is certainly a huge challenge, because violence crosses every human and social reality. Therefore, it is important Learn peacewith adequate tools. With life practices, such as the prophetic one of Franco Vaccarithe founder of “Rondine Cittadella della Pace”where young people from enemy realities coexist for a long period, to educate themselves to reconciliation.
But also with reflection, study, the resources that come from the Christian faith and the rich Catholic magisterium. Peace may today appear an unreachable milestone. But by working for it, from the most “low” levels, it can make its way over time and permeate the feeling of a society.
“Peace is not a spiritual utopia“, Leone explained to the Italian bishops,” “It is a humble way, made of daily gestures, which intertwines patience and courage, listening and action. And who asks our vigilant and generative presence today more than ever».
Dear readers, Peace needs hearts and hands. By transformed hearts and by hands ready for actions, even small. In a culture that today seems to know only words related to war and enmity, we have a precious treasure To be spread, starting from our daily life, together with every man and woman of good will.
(Photo above: reuters)
