A twinning between the archdioceses of Catanzaro-Squillace and Ravenna-Cervia in the name of Cassiodorus. It is the one celebrated on Saturday 29 November in the Squillace Cathedral.
Cassiodorus, born in Squillace around 485 and lived in Ravenna for many years, embodies the idea that faith, culture, dialogue and openness can be intertwined in a single testimony. His return to his native land, the foundation of the monastery-library of Vivarium and his work of preserving the codes represent a legacy that today connects distant territories and communities.
The archbishops participated in the ceremony Claudio Maniago, shepherd of Catanzaro, e Lorenzo Ghizzoni, of Ravenna, numerous civil authorities and ecclesial representatives, including the Superior General of the Society of Saint Paul Don Roberto Ponti.
During the meeting, the idea clearly emerged that this twinning is not a simple formal act, but a sign of hope: rediscovering the cultural and spiritual heritage of Cassiodoro means offering communities a model of communion, dialogue and collaboration. Prizes and recognitions were awarded to those who, with ecclesial, cultural or social commitment, promote the Cassiodora cause. Among the winners, Angelo Raffaele Panzetta, archbishop of Lecce, Francesco Olivabishop of Locri-Gerace e Francesco Milito bishop emeritus of Oppido Mamertina-Palmi.
At the same time, collaboration agreements were signed between the “Cassiodorus the Great” Association, chaired by Don Antonio Tarzia, and the municipal administrations of Squillace and Stalettì, with the aim of enhancing the historical, spiritual and cultural legacy of the great Calabrian humanist.
This gesture of brotherhood between North and South, Calabria and Romagna, represents an invitation to break down barriers and rediscover common roots. In a time in which geographical, cultural and social divisions and distances seem to prevail, twinning renews the challenge of making memory a living bridge for the present and for new generations.
In the end, it is not just an agreement between dioceses: it is a testimony that the Christian faith can also be the guardian of knowledge, dialogue and beauty. And what the legacy of Cassiodorus, a man of faith and culture, can still inspire communities today to walk together, towards a future of harmony and hope.
