Religious and civic representatives gathered in Assisi, Italy, on 25 October 2026 for the opening of an international meeting devoted to peace, dialogue and responsibility amid ongoing conflicts. The gathering, organised by the Community of Sant’Egidio, marks four decades since Saint John Paul II convened the historic 1986 World Day of Prayer for Peace.
From dialogue to action
The meeting’s theme, ‘Unarmed and Disarming Peace,’ reflects a call for ways of resolving conflict that put human dignity first. Speaking to Vatican News, Hala Alkarib of the Strategic Initiative for Women in the Horn of Africa warned that declarations must lead to practical commitments, particularly in places scarred by violence.
A gathering across religions and countries
According to Vatican News, the event is expected to involve 384 representatives of religious traditions, institutions and cultures from 53 countries, with 24 thematic forums addressing issues including disarmament, migration, poverty and young people. Organisers scheduled the gathering for 25–27 October.
The anniversary of the Spirit of Assisi
The anniversary invites a new generation to consider how dialogue among communities can support peace. Pope Leo XIV has expressed his closeness to participants but will not make the planned 27 October journey to Assisi on medical advice as he continues recovering from surgery.
Sources: Vatican News, 25 October 2026; Vatican News Italian edition, 25 October 2026; Holy See announcement covered by Vatican News, 23 October 2026.
