On the occasion of Europe Day, Friday 9 May, Together for Europe will take part in the Europe Fair organised by the city of Strasbourg, alongside the European institutions and numerous associations involved in European integration.
On 9 May, at the Place du Château, from 13:00 to 18:30
members of the network will welcome visitors with information panels, texts and a specially prepared brochure entitled: “If you don’t know where you’re going, look where you came from!
The aim is to initiate conversations with passers-by about the historical and cultural roots of Europe, and to present emblematic figures who, inspired by Christian and humanist values, contributed to the building of modern Europe.
The day will conclude with an
ecumenical celebration at 18:00 in the central Lutheran church Temple Neuf,
prepared by the leaders of the various Christian churches active in Together for Europe in Strasbourg.
A moment of reflection and spirituality to renew together the commitment to a united and supportive Europe.
Moderator: Federico Castiglioni, researcher at the Institute of International Affairs
First part: MEMORY
Speakers
Dr. Carmine Maraio, student of International Relations
Dr. Maria Pia Di Nonno, expert in European history
Second part: OUR CURRENT TIMES
Speakers
Riccardo Cristiano, journalist and Vatican observer for the Italian National TV station
Giulia Covalea, Ambassador for the Fondazione A. Megalizzi
Third part: PROPHECY
Speakers
Dr. Angèle Mulibinge Kaj, student of International Relations
Prof. Alberto Lo Presti, University lecturer at Lumsa University (Rome)
Immediately afterwards (scheduled time 18.45) an Ecumenical Prayer Vigil for Europe will take place in the Basilica of Santa Maria in Aracoeli, with the participation of numerous representatives of the Christian Churches present in Rome.
At the conclusion, there will be a “convivial and friendship” moment in a hall adjacent to the Basilica.
In the central square of Würzburg (Germany) people prayed together for peace on 8 May, on the eve of Europe Day 2024. The event was organised by the ecumenical network Together for Europe. In the city, the Movements and Communities involved in this network are, among others, the Community of Sant’Egidio, Vineyard, the Focolare Movement and the YMCA.
The aim of the ecumenical prayer in public was to make known how some of those present were committed to peace in different ways and to encourage those present to do the same: e.g. in the family, at work, in prison, but also on trips.
Dr. Heiner Arzet (Vineyard) told of his trip to Ukraine, where his encounter with psychologically traumatised soldiers in the Butscha military hospital was particularly touching. During the liturgy together with the soldiers, Arzet realised how he too can be an instrument of peace through his presence in prayer.
Each of us, wherever we are, can make small and big choices in favour of peace every day.
