The Journey of Peace in Calabria starts from Sanctuary of San Francesco da Paola.

In a remarkable celebration of the International Day of Peace, the "Calabria Land of Peace and Brotherhood" program embarked on a journey of profound significance, commencing in Rome at the Chamber of Deputies and the majestic Archaeological Park of the Colosseum on September 21st.

This symbolic expedition commenced with the arrival of the Peace Run torch at the holiest of Calabrian sanctuaries, the Sanctuary of San Francesco da Paola.

The torch's arrival was met with a warm welcome from distinguished civil and religious dignitaries, serving as a potent symbol of humanity's shared aspiration for peace and the unity of Calabrian communities.

The inaugural event of the "Calabria Land of Peace and Brotherhood" initiative commenced at 10 a.m., with its epicenter at the Sanctuary of San Francesco da Paola. This visionary project, conceived by the Colors for Peace Association, boasts collaborative participation from Sri Chinmoy Oneness-Home Peace Run Italia and Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights Italia, under the stewardship of the Municipality of Tarsia and the Patronship of the Region of Calabria and the Province of Cosenza. This ambitious undertaking has garnered widespread support from across the Province of Cosenza, with numerous institutions and associations joining the cause. Distinguished attendees included Father Francesco Trebisonda, Provincial of the Minims; Bishop Giovanni Checchinato of Cosenza; Monsignor Maurizio Aloise, Bishop of Rossano Cariati; Father Ibrahim Faltas, Vicar of the Custody of the Holy Land; Don Pino Straface; Mayor of Tarsia Roberto Ameruso; and Mayor of Paola Giovanni Politano.

The event provided a platform for key figures, including Adriana Grispo, the program's coordinator; Roberto Cannizzaro of the Municipality of Tarsia; Mario Gallo representing Colors for Peace; and Alfredo De Joannon from Sri Chinmoy Oneness-Home Peace Run Italy, to elucidate the objectives and vision of the Calabria Land of Peace and Brotherhood project. Moreover, this gathering served as an invaluable opportunity to cultivate future collaborative efforts between the initiative's proponents and the institutions operating in the Holy Land.

Discussions centered on initiatives aimed at schools under the aegis of the Custody of the Holy Land, such as the creation of peace-themed artwork and exhibitions, and the prospect of organizing a Peace Run edition in Jerusalem involving local schools, with the participation of students from Christian, Jewish and Muslim communities.

Concluding the presentation, the torch of Peace Run embarked on a journey to meet with mayors and schools across the municipalities of the Province of Cosenza, where mayors pledged their commitment to the "Calabria Land of Peace and Brotherhood" Pact. The program will culminate on the 29th in Ferramonti di Tarsia.

Alfredo De Joannon President of the Sri Chinmoy Oneness-Home Peace Run Italia about the project: **«**It is an immense honor for us to participate in the 'Calabria Land of Peace and Brotherhood' program, a pioneering initiative that places Calabria at the forefront of promoting a culture of peace. It contributes to unlocking and networking the boundless potential of the Calabrian people. We are very grateful to all organizers for inviting us to be part of this important program. This initiative also offers a precious opportunity for Calabrian communities to reconnect with their roots, spiritual values, and moral principles, all of which serve as guiding lights for a brighter future.»

The complete video coverage of the event is available at this link on the FB page of the Sanctuary of San Francesco da Paola: https://fb.watch/nqR-XhUOk2/