In his message, the archbishop of Messina Giovanni Accolla underlines the importance of the school as a place of comparison, dialogue, and acquisition of knowledge and curiosity. Invites not to let concepts such as justice, freedom, inclusion, peace and truth remain abstract, but that they are translated into a commitment of daily life.
He underlines that the change begins with themselves and that students are not only the future, but also the present of the company. Urges them to say so to everything that is good, to defend freedom and truth. The Archbishop also invites the school to make a place of peace, “unarmed and disarming,” and to commit himself personally for his construction through daily gestures such as a smile, a tense hand and respect for the dignity of each person. The message ends with the wish of a happy school year and the blessing.
The full text of the letter
Dear school leaders, Dear teachers, dear students,
It is always with emotion and joy that I want to address my wish on the days when the new school year begins. I think of the youngest children accompanied by their parents, to those who cross the doors of the school for a new didactic path and students who complete their process and prepare for the important choices of their lives.
Between expectations and trepidation, aware of the commitment that awaits you and the sense of duty you are called, take your steps for an always fascinating adventure that is your full human growth, in which mind and heart come together and culture really translates into daily life.
The school is not only a place, but also a precious “once” that cannot be worn out. It is time for discussion, of socialization through listening and dialogue, of opening new cultural horizons. It is time when you grow in thought and knowledge, acquiring the courage to be able to question yourself. It is time for curiosity and amazement. According to you and with your teachers you are achieved by words of high ethical value with which to compare yourself: justice, freedom, inclusion, peace, truth!
How to do it so that they do not remain abstract concepts, but are translated into life commitment?
However obvious it may seem, the answer is in you all, students and teachers. Yes, because every real change begins with oneself. You students are indicated as the future of society. Of course, but you are first of all the present! So, here and now, without references or delegations, you are called to live in your daily life, justice and peace, the truth and the fraternal freedom and mutual welcome, rejecting all forms of violence.
I urge you to always say yes to everything that is good, which promotes justice and equity ; To hear your word in defense of freedom, in respect of the diversity of each, and the truth, that in the multiplicity of the voices that resonate in today’s society I like to indicate you with the capital “V”, that is, Jesus Christ, God made man to always walk alongside each person.
Finally, I invite you to make this path of learning school of peace, “unarmed and disarming” as Pope Leo XIV said. Also this value starts from the personal commitment of each whenever you give a smile, tend your hand, bring down walls that divide to build streets of dialogue, respect the dignity of each person by welcoming it in its or our diversity. Then everyone will have a piece in the construction of the peace building and a better company.
Happy school year to all. I bless you heart.