Montecassino, the ancient father house of the Benedictines, remembered an important event last Thursday, 24 October. Sixty years ago on that day, Pope Paul VI consecrated the abbey church. This ended the long period of reconstruction after the destructive bombardment of the monastery during WWII.
During the same occasion, Pope Paul VI declared Saint Benedict Patron of Europe. Archabbot Luca Fallica of Montecassino and the community celebrated this memorial anniversary with the presence of many regional and local dignitaries. During this period of war, the message of peace has taken on new meaning. Pacis Nuntius, “Messenger of Peace” was indeed the title of Pope Paul VI’s proclamation on that day.
After the Mass, Abbot Primate Jeremias Schröder provided a profound reflection on the 60th anniversary of the consecration of Montecassino Abbey, commemorating its history, the peace message of Pope Paul VI, and the ongoing mission of the Benedictine community. Highlighting the Abbey’s legacy as a place of spiritual renewal, resilience, and peace, Abbot Primate Jeremias’ words also urge us to look forward, embracing values that guide us in our challenging times.
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