Canticle of Peace, held on 29 July 2026 at Borgo Laudato si’ in Castel Gandolfo, formed part of commemorations marking 800 years since the death of St Francis of Assisi.
In the programme
Holy See and Vatican News accounts place the gathering within that centenary. A 27 July 2026 Holy See press release described the evening as inspired by the spirit of St Francis and dedicated to peace among peoples. Readings and music included texts linked to St Francis, among them the Canticle of the Creatures, biblical passages, appeals for peace associated with St Paul VI and St John Paul II, and material from Pope Francis’s “Fratelli tutti.”
Organisers were the Laudato si’ Higher Education Centre and the Andrea Bocelli Foundation. The programme featured the ABF Voices choir of 164 children and young people and Andrea Bocelli, and was led by Pope Leo XIV. The Pope prayed that peace would reign in the homes of the young participants and in places that continue to suffer from violence.
Report
For the gathering and the greeting, read the report on the post-event greeting. Event details are supported by Holy See and Vatican News accounts.