A gathering in Abu Dhabi celebrated the 800th anniversary of the death of St. Francis of Assisi, exploring his written legacy and its lasting impact on interreligious dialogue, fraternity, and environmental care. Held on October 19 at the Italian Cultural Institute during the Week of the Italian Language in the World, the event brought together around 50 participants. It was organized by the Apostolic Vicariate of Southern Arabia in collaboration with the Italian Embassy in the United Arab Emirates and the Institute.
Opening the event, Italy’s Ambassador to the UAE, Lorenzo Fanara, highlighted St. Francis’ dual legacy as an early pioneer of Italian literature and a timeless inspiration for diplomacy centered on mutual understanding, cultural exchange, and sustainability. Bishop Paolo Martinelli, Apostolic Vicar of Southern Arabia, reflected on how the saint’s personal transformation—from a aspiring knight disillusioned by the horrors of war to a man deeply encountering Christ—shaped his groundbreaking writings. Bishop Martinelli emphasized that St. Francis’ famous call to peace and fraternity extended not only to lepers and societal outcasts, but also to all creation and to historical encounters like his peaceful meeting with Sultan Malik Al-Kamil.
Other speakers echoed the contemporary relevance of Franciscan spirituality across the Gulf region. Fr. Stefano Luca noted that St. Francis’ social contributions stem directly from his deep relationship with God, while Professor Roberto Catalano drew parallels between the saint and Pope Francis’ ongoing efforts to foster positive relations with the Muslim world. Additionally, Emirati artist and engineer Sheikh Ali bin Abdullah Al Mualla discussed environmental sustainability through the lens of Franciscan care for creation, demonstrating how eco-friendly art can reflect these shared values in daily life.