The March for Peace starts in the center of Perugia, capital city of Umbria, and proceeds to Assisi, the City of Peace, about 18 miles away. People of all ages and nationalities, lay and religious representatives and organizations from all over Italy and around the world walk side by side to the highest point in Assisi for a peaceful demonstration at the Rocca Maggiore, the ruined castle that overlooks the Basilica of St. Francis and the city below.
Draped in and carrying flags and signs the marchers quietly voice their opposition to war and seek an end to poverty, hunger and injustice in a world where there is still more wealth than we can even comprehend.
What could be more fitting than supporting the message of peace in the very same context and setting that St.Francis of Assisi did eight centuries ago?
“While you are proclaiming peace with your lips, be sure to have it even more fully in your heart.”
St. Francis of Assisi
The 2010 Peace March from Perugia to Assisi is planned for Sunday, May 16. Take a look at La Tavola delle pace, the organization planning this event.
In 2005 Bob and I had the privilege of being in Assisi for the Marcia per la Pace. When we approached the Basilica a group of young people had hung an enormous peace flag from the wall where steps lead to a view of Assisi and added our names to the banner. We wrote, “Let there be peace on earth and let it begin with me” and “What have you added to the world today?” It was an emotional moment for us, and one that we will never forget.
-- Contributed by Rosemary and Bob Connelly (see bio), artists who fulfilled their dream to "Live Cheap and Make Art" in Italy. Their website www.livecheapmakeart.com showcases their watercolors and photographs.
April 23rd, 2010 at 8:41 am
Thank you for the reminder of both the event and its significance.
April 23rd, 2010 at 9:29 am
with all the DVD’s in this world…, just beautiful! would love a DVD of this march.
April 23rd, 2010 at 2:24 pm
One of the many things I enjoyed about this day was seeing that almost every Comune or Citta participated and flew their banner proudly. I can’t imagine a city or town in America taking such a brave stand as an official act of government. Bravo Italia!
April 23rd, 2010 at 3:58 pm
This should be publicized by the US media. What a wonderful expression of hope for the world!
April 23rd, 2010 at 4:32 pm
“Let there be peace on earth and let it begin with me.”!!!! Beautiful words, words that all should start their day with, I know I will. Thank you for the article and photos… and Pax.
April 24th, 2010 at 8:43 pm
Rosemary, I remember that day. It was very moving to see all the people of all ages walking up to Assisi with banners and signs. If only everyone felt the same way…What a beautiful world this would be.
Grande Bacci, Nedra
April 24th, 2010 at 9:30 pm
“Pace e bene a tutti!”, the Franciscan blessing, has been said for eight centuries by the followers of Francis; peace and good will to all! Young Francis Bernadoni fought in a war between Assisi and Perugia, was captured and imprisoned, and decided war was not the way to solve the problems of mankind. Just the thought of visits to Assisi fill me with a sense of peace. A peace march in Assisi! How appropriate.