COMECE President issues call for peace ahead of Easter 2026

Mgr Mariano Crociata - Image COMECE

On Monday, 30 March 2026, the President of the Commission of the Bishops' Conferences of the European Union (COMECE), Mgr Mariano Crociata, shared the following message ahead the forthcoming celebration of Easter, at a time "marked by growing conflicts and tensions" - renewing the call for the European Union to promote peace, dialogue and solidarity among peoples.

The Bishops of COMECE have followed with concern and alarm the opening of new theatres of war, following the one in Ukraine, in the Middle East, without forgetting the many other ongoing conflicts across the globe. We have appreciated the efforts of the European Union not to fuel tensions, but rather to promote, wherever possible, diplomatic initiatives and dialogu

As the celebration of the Christian Easter approaches, believers and people of good will are urged to encourage every effort aimed at halting violence, calling for truces and ensuring the delivery of humanitarian aid. Our thoughts turn to those places where violence has inflicted unprecedented suffering on innocent civilian populations, with an incalculable toll of dead and wounded, and where many people are deprived of even the most basic necessities and any sense of security.

The mystery of the Risen Jesus reminds us that peace is a gift that springs from the victory of hope and life over suffering and death. As Christians and as European citizens, we are called to receive and nurture this gift through a commitment to safeguarding the dignity of every person, promoting justice and acting in accordance with international law.

In view of Holy Easter, we, the Bishops of COMECE, renew our appeal to keep this commitment alive, which calls for a shared will for unity among the Member States.

The European Union was born as a project of peace. In it, Europe recognises its identity and the only appropriate way to pursue the good of the peoples who form it. Our hope is that the economic and political difficulties, however exceptional, may be faced as a challenge capable of advancing further the process of European integration.