Mattarella calls for peace and condemns religiously justified violence in Assisi address

President Sergio Mattarella delivered a live televised speech from the Loggia of the Sacred Convent in Assisi, commemorating 800 years since Saint Francis of Assisi died. Speaking before roughly 3,000 people, he appealed for the "sun of Francis" to illuminate the world and disarm both hearts and words. He condemned the practice of sanctifying weapons and placing armies under religious banners, stressing that Saint Francis taught that no greater fault exists than killing in God’s name.

Mattarella urged dialogue with adversaries, recalling the saint’s encounter with the Sultan during the Fifth Crusade as a model of respect. He also warned of severe environmental damage and the reckless exploitation of natural resources. Throughout, he emphasized dignity, respect for creation, and peaceful coexistence as timeless lessons from the saint.