Florence: Pax Christi International Conference final day

The founders of Pax Christi: Marthe Dortel-Claudot and Bishop Pierre-Marie Théas

Our day began once again with a spiritual moment presented by the USA delegates. They told the stories of a number of Peace Workers who have been inspiring. Some are on their way to Beatification.

Venerable Pierre Toussaint (1776-1853) a philanthropist and founder of many Catholic works. He was a born as a slave in Haiti.

Venerable Mother Mary Elizabeth Lange (1784-1882) a native of the Caribbean. She was the foundress and the first Superior General of the Oblate Sisters of Providence.

Venerable Henrietta Delille (1813-1862) born in New Orleans, Louisiana; For the love of Jesus and responding to the Gospel mandate she was determined to help those in need. In spite of racial hatred, she practiced heroic virtues. Shad faith, lived in hope and practiced love.

Venerable Fr Augustus Tolton (1854-1897) the first black Roman Catholic priest when he was ordained in1886.He was know for his eloquent sermons, his singing voice and accordion playing.

Servant of God Julia Greely (1883-1918) born a slave in Missouri. A daily communicant, a rich devotion to the Sacred Heart.

Servant of God Sr Thea Bowman FSPA (1937-1990) raised in Canton, Mississippi. Acclaimed as 'A holy woman by those who knew her.

Servant of God Friar Martin de Porres Maria Ward (1928-1999) after ordination in 1955 he volunteered for missions in Brazil. He dedicated himself to the care of the poor.

Our fifth session focussed on working out Regional Strategies for the Future - covering Africa, Americas, Asia-Pacific, Europe, Middle East.

The. Pax Christ movement is interconnected by Advocacy priorities globally, but also regionally.

We took the opportunity to reflect on regional contexts, strategies for peace, justice and human rights, and to plan joint initiatives.

Session Six was an evaluation of PCI working groups. For the effectiveness of Pax Christi International advocacy work, the following key themes and priorities have been set and implemented: 1. Just Peace on the Holy Land. 2. Disarmament and Integral Human Security. 3. Climate Justice and Energy Transition from a Peacebuilding Approach.

In this session, Working Group members were able to share context analysis, evaluate campaigns and actions that have been useful for informing the public and giving policy recommendations to decision-makers and strategize for the future.

We had the celebration of Mass with Bishop Marc Stegner, President of PCI, presiding and Auxiliary Bishop of El Paso. It was a beautiful Liturgy with elements of Latin, Spanish, Italian and English.

Peace Award Ceremony

Established in 1988 the Pax Christi International Peace Award is funded by the Cardinal Bernardus Alfrink Peace Fund and honours contemporary individuals and organisations who make a stand for peace, justice and nonviolence in different parts of the world. This year, the awardee come from North America.

The Award was made to the Bishop of El Paso, Mark Seitz and all those working with Migrants on the Mexican border. The Award was accepted by Bishiop Tony Celino on his behalf. There were co-workers who receive Awards as well.

One awardee, Melisa writes: "Tonight's recognition of the work we do at Estrella Del Paso and the diocese of El Paso is so appreciated. The Estrella Del Paso team served 64,000 people in 2024. We estimate we have served well over 500,000 people in our nearly 40 year history and every single person served is served with love. Thank you again for this opportunity of a lifetime for this girl from El Paso who had big dreams but never imagined I'd be here today." In love and peace. Melissa.

Awards were given to: Dylan Corbett, Executive of the Hope Border Institute. Annunciation House, a house of refuge for Migrants; and Marisa Limon Garza, Immigration Advocacy Centre.

It was a most moving ceremony and a true recognition of the tremendous work being done for Migrants by the El Paso Diocese. A most fitting end to a wonderful Convention. What a privilege to be there!