Assisi and Siena Celebrate the Spiritual Union of the Patron Saints of Italy
The city of Assisi has renewed its spiritual bond with Siena through a series of events celebrating the unity and brotherhood brought by their patron saints, St. Francis and St. Catherine. In a recent event held in the historic Piazza del Campo in Siena, the mayor of Assisi participated in the celebrations dedicated to Saint Catherine, expressing the profound bond that unites the two cities in the name of peace and brotherhood.
During the event, the mayor of Assisi took part in a meaningful ceremony, sharing the stage with the mayors of Siena and Teramo. The occasion was also a moment to remember the 85th anniversary of the proclamation of Saint Francis and Saint Catherine as patrons of Italy, a recognition established in 1939 at the behest of Pope Pius XII. This anniversary underlines the values of peace, intercultural and interreligious dialogue that both saints inspired.
The mayor of Assisi noted the importance of a 2005 law that further underlines the links between Assisi and Siena, encouraging institutions to promote the values of peace and brotherhood, particularly among young people. This shared commitment is particularly relevant in view of the eighth centenary of the death of Saint Francis, for which a joint journey of Assisi and Siena towards a renewed brotherhood is envisaged.
The day developed through several significant moments, including a solemn mass in the Basilica of San Domenico in Siena, presided over by Monsignor Lorenzo Leuzzi, bishop of Teramo – Atri, and concelebrated by Cardinal Augusto Paolo Lojudice, archbishop of Siena-Colle di Val D ‘Elsa-Montalcino. Following the mass, a procession crossed the streets to Piazza del Campo, culminating with speeches by the ecclesiastical and civil authorities and a blessing given with the relic of Saint Catherine, extended to the city, the Archdiocese, Italy and ‘Europe.
The mayor of Assisi, in his speech, emphasized how, despite the dark times marked by global conflicts, the legacy of peace and unity of the patron saints can still guide communities towards a future of hope and collaboration. The celebration ended with the traditional flag-waving of the districts, a gesture that symbolizes the joy and pride of the historical and cultural roots deeply rooted in these celebrations.
