Abu Dhabi celebrates St. Francis’ legacy of fraternity and dialogue

Bishop Paolo Martinelli spoke about the writings of Saint Francis of Assisi during a gathering in Abu Dhabi on October 19. The event marked the 800th anniversary of the death of the Italian saint.

The Apostolic Vicariate of Southern Arabia organized the gathering at the Italian Cultural Institute alongside the Italian Embassy in the United Arab Emirates. Approximately 50 people attended the event, which took place during the Week of the Italian Language in the World. Italy’s Ambassador to the UAE, Lorenzo Fanara, opened the evening.

Bishop Martinelli, the Apostolic Vicar of Southern Arabia, described the writings of Saint Francis, including his rules, letters, and prayers, as brief but profound. He noted that these texts allow readers to understand the life of the saint and the religious order he founded. The Bishop specifically mentioned the Canticle of Brother Sun as a significant work in Italian literature that expresses the saint's connection to creation. The program included reflections on Franciscan spirituality, interreligious dialogue, literature, and sustainable art.