by reflecting on the identity of the European Union and the practical meaning of developing European citizenship. This is the proposal put forward by the ecumenical network Together for Europe, which on Saturday 9 May organised the event ‘A Light for Europe in a Global Twilight’ at the Teatro Rossini, the very venue from which Don Luigi Sturzo launched his ‘Appeal to the Free and Strong’ in 1919. The participants included young people and representatives from the academic and political worlds, called upon to reflect together on the founding values of the EU in the current global context. A “twilight” characterised by conflicts and crises
Leading the discussion…
Amid live musical interludes, six young people from the group Ut Omnes – founded by a group of students from LUMSA University and now expanded to include students from other universities – who will be at the European Parliament in the coming days to meet with MEPs and sign an “Intergenerational Pact”. At the heart of the debate was the issue of European citizenship, not limited solely to the institutional dimension. After all, as the young Mattia Federici emphasised in his speech, over the past few decades the EU has built ‘an extraordinary legacy’ in economic, legal and institutional terms, without, however, managing to fully instil in its citizens a genuine sense of shared belonging. European citizenship, he observed, ‘exists only in the treaties and in voting rights’
Hence the proposal to…
revitalising the European project through a new narrative, by investing in civic education and greater citizen participation in decision-making processes. But this, as Alessandra Arcidiacono – another of the young people taking part in the debate – pointed out, is not enough: ‘Citizenship is made up of laws, cultures, languages and traditions, but it is the spirit that must hold it all together’. A spirit already present in the younger generations: “Young people are already living Europe even before they can define it,” she observed. “For them, Europe is not a destination but a starting point.”
Offering a geopolitical interpretation of the current historical moment…
It was Pasquale Ferrara, ambassador and former political director at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, who urged those present to rediscover Europe’s original vocation as a space for dialogue and coexistence. Starting with a critique of any ‘closed’ conception of European identity, arguing that citizenship cannot be based solely on blood or descent, and citing the jurist Luigi Ferrajoli and his idea of a Constitution for the Earth, Ferrara emphasised the need for European citizenship to be situated within a broader perspective of universal citizenship. This is an achievable goal if we move beyond the image of ‘roots’ to embrace that of a ‘river’: an identity that changes, grows and transforms without losing continuity. A metaphor which, for the diplomat, aptly describes the nature of Europe, called upon to hold together its many diverse elements. After all, Europe ‘has taught the world that conflicts can be managed through the rule of law and political dialogue’. That is why, in a scenario marked by the resurgence of military force, the Old Continent should distinguish itself as a ‘gentle force’, capable of governing without succumbing to the logic of violence.
The long afternoon has come to an end…
with an ecumenical prayer service in the Basilica of Santa Maria sopra Minerva, which began with opening remarks by Mons. Marco Gnavi, head of the Office for Ecumenism, Interreligious Dialogue and New Religious Movements of the Diocese of Rome, and featured prayers for peace led by Lutherans, Anglicans, Presbyterians, Evangelicals, Methodists, Orthodox and Catholic Christians.
Youth Group Ut Omnes_TfE Rome 9 May 2026_Photo: D. GollerPasquale Ferrara and Alberto Lo Presti_TfE Rome 9 May 2026_Photo D.GollerEurope Day_TfE Rome 9 May 2026_Photo D. GollerConference room TfE Event Rome 9 May 2026_Photo G. CiottoliEcumenical prayer_TfE Rome 9 May 2026_Photo: G. CiottoliEcumenical prayer_TfE Rome 9 May 2026_Photo: G. CiottoliEcumenical prayer_TfE Rome 9 May 2026_Photo: G. Ciottoli
The young people aim to inspire European leaders to draft laws and policies that prioritise human connection, social cohesion and lasting peace. At its core, the initiative seeks to provide a “soul” to political discourse, ensuring that the legislative future of Europe is rooted in values that unite rather than divide.
The foundational values – pratical tools
In a global climate increasingly defined by conflict and instability, the organisers believe the timing is critical. They argue that for Europe to navigate modern crises, it must reclaim its Christian roots —specifically the foundational values of forgiveness and cooperation. For the younger generation, these are not just abstract concepts but practical tools essential for fostering harmony between diverse groups in an uncertain world.
The programme and the Intergenerational Pact
The programme will include an exchange of experiences, dialogue on the theme of international order and input on some of today’s crucial issues of today. An Intergenerational Pact (click here>>), will be presented, calling for acommitment to collaboration across age groups. Representatives from various political parties will be among those who engage in discussions focussed on the vision of European unity.
For those who wish to follow the event online, details are below (do remember the time zone differences. In Brussels, the live streaming will be from 10.00 to 13.00).
Together for Europe arose from the coming together of Christian communities and movements. Despite their differences and those of their Churches, they recognise a shared calling: to bear witness to fraternity as the continent’s vocation. These days of prayer are part of that journey. They are simple, communal prayers that accompany us, step by step, towards 9 May, Europe Day. Through them, we seek to entrust the continent to God together and to renew our strong commitment to peace, unity and reconciliation. The text was written by Sister Nicole Grochowina and Matthias Buehlmann.
The form of the prayers draws on an ancient Christian tradition and invites us to pause and make room for the action of the Spirit. In a time marked by fragmentation and conflict, they call for a new outpouring of hope for Europe.
One prayer, nine perspectives
Every day is accompanied by the same invocation: we ask God for eyes that see, ears that hear, hearts that welcome, feet that walk, hands that work, and mouths that proclaim the hope of His Kingdom. This repetitive prayer becomes a school of life and places a specific aspect of Christian witness at the centre of each day: a gaze that recognises beauty, listening which is authentic, a heart open to change, the journeying towards the other, hands which are of service and the courage to proclaim.
Unity in Diversity – a shared path of prayer
The central theme of these prayers is clear: Europe needs a soul. A soul nourished by the Gospel, capable of holding together unity and diversity, memory and the future. Praying in this way means to allow oneself to be personally involved, transforming prayer into daily choices and practical actions.
It is not merely a text to be read, but a shared journey that renews our ‘yes’ to Jesus’ New Commandment: to love one another. From this love springs a credible hope, capable of giving back to Europe its face and soul.
Aachen, a city with a deeply European soul, provided the ideal setting. During our visit to the cathedral and the historic centre, the layers of history became tangible: from the legacy of Charlemagne to the scars of the Second World War in the Euregio. In this historical setting, we felt like a “miniature Europe”: a lively diversity from South Limburg, Flanders, Wallonia, the German-speaking community of Belgium and the Rhineland. A special gift was the completely unexpected meeting with Fadi Krikor (Meeting of Leaders) and his wife Nicole right inside the cathedral.
Foundations of peace: Adenauer and de Gaulle
An impetus from Klaus Henning reminded us of the “axis of reconciliation” between France and Germany. The work of Konrad Adenauer and Charles de Gaulle, after eighty years of enmity and three devastating wars, laid the foundations for a peaceful Europe. This historic reconciliation remains a central pillar and a mandate for the future.
Unity in diversity: praise and intercession
Despite our different traditions and languages – French, Dutch and German – we were united by our clear focus on Jesus Christ. Our time of communal worship was deeply marked by this central theme. At the same time, we prayed for the suffering of the world, especially the people in the war zones of Iran, Israel and Ukraine. With our blessings and prayers, Jeff and Romkje Fontaine (Schuman Centre) left for Ukraine the very next day.
A day that gives hope
The warm hospitality at the Henning home created an atmosphere of mutual respect and brotherly love. The participants’ feedback speaks for itself: ‘It was a wonderful and profound experience of hope!’ Another voice summed up the experience as follows: ‘It gave me great inner joy to be together as a family. Let us continue to pray for one another and ask God for the grace that peace may return to the world. It was a day full of stars!’
The goal is to bear witness to the unity among Christians in Europe in order to put it at the service of the development of European policies, moving towards reconciliation and peace. In an international context marked by wars, there is a need to draw on the heritage of Christian values to address the challenges of coexistence among the peoples of the Old Continent.
These values, these principles, are contained in the Christian soul of Europe: ‘Reviving Europe: A Soul for Reconciliation’ is the title of the meeting we will hold at the European Parliament on May 13, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. The program includes the exchange of experiences among young people, dialogue between representatives of political forces on the theme of international order, and exploration conducted by some experts on crucial issues for continental and global balances.
In the preceding days, on the 11th and 12th, guided tours of the European Union’s institutional venues and working sessions between young people and European policy experts are planned.
To adequately prepare for this event, Together for Europe has planned a series of four preliminary meetings, held via video call, attended by all those who will experience the event in Brussels. During these meetings, mutual acquaintance is encouraged, European citizenship is promoted starting from its cultural and institutional characteristics, and the role of Together for Europe in today’s world is examined.
Preparations for the vote generated a unity never before seen in the 35-year history of independent Slovenia. The referendum campaign succeeded in transcending traditional political divisions between left and right, focusing instead on respect, value and the culture of life. For the first time, all Christian denominations (Catholics, Evangelicals, Serbian and Macedonian Orthodox), all major Slovenian movements and communities, as well as Muslims, came together to launch a joint message against the law. The fight was mainly promoted by lay people, with the support of doctors, lawyers, psychologists and a large number of young people.
The campaign and the debate
The initiative began in January 2024 with a visit from Alex Schadenberg, a Canadian pioneer in anti-euthanasia activism, who highlighted the pitfalls of the legislation. The campaign was widespread, with over 100 meetings, conferences and panel discussions across the country, often with three or four significant events per day. Although 85% of the mainstream media was controlled by parties in favour of the law, activists made extensive use of social networks and Catholic radio (which provided daily services against euthanasia) to disseminate recorded testimonies from patients, disabled people, doctors and nurses. In addition, all major religious communities and medical organisations in Slovenia issued joint statements against euthanasia, strengthening the “NO” front.
The Power of Faith and Prayer
A crucial element of the campaign was a strong spiritual support. Religious communities, with the support of Slovenian bishops, organised a wide variety of activities: prayers in all parishes, novenas and recitation of the Rosary (even at 5 a.m. on the radio), days of fasting and prayer, including members of the Muslim community. Solidarity in prayer also came from Croatia, Bosnia and other Eastern European countries. Participation exceeded the 20% quorum of those eligible to vote. The success of the referendum cemented Christian unity and demonstrated that the battle for the value of life is a cause that can unite an entire nation. One participant’s impression: ‘The culture of life has won here.’
And is not the YES to life – ‘we are committed to defending its inviolable dignity in all its stages, from conception to natural death’ – the first of the seven YESes, to which our ecumenical network is committed?
