Europe Day commemorates the historic Schuman Declaration of 1950, which laid the foundation for the European Union (https://bit.ly/3WobeCc). It serves as a reminder of the importance of unity, peace and cooperation among the diverse nations of Europe. As Catholics, we recognise the significance of this day and affirm the values of solidarity, subsidiarity and respect for human dignity that underpin the European project.

At the heart of Catholic social teaching lies the principle of solidarity – the recognition of our interconnectedness and shared responsibility for one another. This principle resonates deeply with the ideals of European unity, which seek to transcend national boundaries and foster collaboration for the common good. Just as the Body of Christ is composed of many members with diverse gifts and talents, so too is Europe enriched by its cultural, linguistic and historical diversity.

The Catholic Church has long been a proponent of European unity, recognising the potential of a united Europe to promote peace, justice and reconciliation on the continent. Pope St. John Paul II, in his encyclical Centesimus Annus, praised the efforts of European leaders to build a Europe of solidarity and subsidiarity, rooted in the shared values of freedom, democracy and the rule of law.

Europe Day offers us an opportunity to reflect on the achievements of the European project and to reaffirm our commitment to the values that unite us as Europeans. It is a day to celebrate the rich tapestry of cultures, traditions and languages that make Europe a beacon of diversity and pluralism. It is also a day to recommit ourselves to the pursuit of peace and justice in our continent and beyond.

As Catholics, we are called to be ambassadors of reconciliation and builders of unity in a world often divided by conflict and division. Pope Francis has repeatedly emphasised the importance of dialogue, encounter and solidarity as antidotes to the “globalisation of indifference” that plagues our world. By fostering a culture of encounter and solidarity, we can contribute to the building of a more just, peaceful and inclusive Europe for future generations.

Let us pray for the leaders of Europe, that they may be guided by wisdom and compassion in their efforts to promote unity, justice and peace. Let us also pray for all those who are marginalised or oppressed in our continent, that they may experience the healing touch of God’s love and find hope in the promise of a more just and fraternal society. Let us commit ourselves anew to the work of building a Europe that reflects the timeless values of the Gospel – unity in diversity, solidarity in service and peace in justice.