To me, the Lamp of Peace of Saint Francis symbolises how peace lights our way forward to a better future for all people, of every faith and country and community. But it is our task to provide the fuel for that light, and what fuels global peace is mutual respect and understanding. This is why it is so meaningful to me, to be passed the Lamp of Peace by one who has done so much to advance understanding and respect among peoples—my dear friend, Chancellor Merkel. It is only by combining our efforts that humanity will meet today’s serious challenges—to solve global crises; heal our earth’s environment; and include everyone, especially our youth, in opportunity and hope. Saint Francis, whose shrine is at this Basilica, is known throughout the world for his compassion toward every person and all living things. Such love is an important guide for us today. The people of the world do not have to be the same in order to have the same concerns, share the same needs, or hope the same hopes. To reach a better future, we must find a common path. In the Holy Quran, God says: In the Name of God, the Compassionate, the Merciful, “People! We created you from a single pair of male and female and made you into nations and tribes, that you may know each other. The most honoured of you in the sight of God is the most righteous of you.” (49:13) Today, for the world’s people to know each other, we need real dialogue. That means speaking honestly, listening carefully, and acting on the positive values we all share.Read the full text of the speech here: kingabdullah.jo/en/speeches/during-lamp-peace-award-ceremony-assisi
Text of speech: All Rights Reserved © 2001-2019, Royal Hashemite Court
Photo: Andrea Cova - sanfrancesco.org
