The third edition of the World Meeting on Human Fraternity was presented today at the Holy See Press Office, scheduled to take place in Rome on September 12–13. The event, promoted by the Basilica di San Pietro with the support of Vatican institutions and institutional and private sponsors, aims to reflect on the meaning of “being human” today, in a world marked by conflicts, loneliness, poverty, environmental crises, and technological challenges.
The press conference was moderated by Director Matteo Bruni and featured interventions by Cardinal Mauro Gambetti, Archpriest of the Basilica and President of the Fabbrica di San Pietro, and Father Francesco Occhetta SJ, Secretary General of the Fondazione Fratelli Tutti.
“The aim is to present fraternity to the world as a cornerstone for a new political, economic, and social order,” said Cardinal Gambetti, emphasizing that “the principle of universal fraternity can provide the coordinates to write the history of this epochal change, respecting people, differences, and harmony with creation.”
Father Francesco Occhetta highlighted the role of the 15 thematic tables planned for September 12, dedicated to sectors such as agriculture, art and literature, economy, education, and work. “The tables are meant to signal the value of fraternity and highlight the human root that connects everyone. They are the result of a three-year cultural and spiritual journey, with communities already formed around spaces of dialogue,” he explained.
The event will culminate on Saturday, September 13, with the Assembly of the Human, hosted in the Sala degli Orazi e Curiazi at the Campidoglio, coordinated by Nobel laureates and representatives of international institutions. Among the participants are Graça Machel Mandela and Maria Ressa, 2021 Nobel Peace Prize winner.
On Saturday evening, the international event “Grace for the World” is scheduled in Piazza San Pietro, featuring performances by Andrea Bocelli, Pharrell Williams with the Voices of Fire choir, John Legend, and the choir of the Diocese of Rome, as well as a light and drone show inspired by the Sistine Chapel. “This is not just an artistic event,” Occhetta emphasized, “but a moment to experience together the content of the tables, intertwining music, words, and light.”
Video messages from Maria Ressa and Andrea Bocelli highlighted the Meeting’s goal: to spread hope and a shared sense of humanity and fraternity.
All information is available on the website: https://fraternitymeeting.org/en/events/
Press Office Contacts
E-mail: fraternitymeetingpressoffice@gmail.com
Copyright © 2025 Basilica Papale di San Pietro - Materiale fotografico: © Fabbrica di San Pietro e Vatican Media - All Rights Reserved.