The Embassy of Italy in Manama, in collaboration with This is Bahrain, announced a landmark celebration marking two historic milestones: the 800th anniversary of the passing of St. Francis of Assisi and the Year of Isa Al Kabir, reflecting Bahrain’s enduring commitment to dialogue, coexistence, and respect for diversity.
Manama, Bahrain – The announcement was made during a press conference held at The Regency InterContinental, bringing together representatives from the media, the diplomatic community, religious organizations from different faiths, and invited guests, reflecting the diverse and inclusive nature of Bahrain’s society.
As part of a broader international initiative led by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and coordinated through its global diplomatic network, the commemoration is also supported by the official National Committee established in Italy for the 800th anniversary of St. Francis of Assisi.
The Legacy of Saint Francis and Its Contemporary Relevance
Saint Francis of Assisi (1181–1228) remains one of the most influential figures associated with peace, humility, and dialogue across cultures. He is widely remembered for his historic meeting in 1219 with Sultan al-Kamil of Egypt during the Crusades—an encounter that stood out as a rare moment of mutual respect and understanding in a period marked by conflict.
His message extended beyond spirituality, emphasizing care for the poor, respect for nature, and a vision of coexistence grounded in compassion and openness. These values continue to resonate globally, forming the foundation of the international initiative led by Italy to mark the 800th anniversary of his passing.
Through the work of the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the official National Committee established for the commemoration, Saint Francis’ legacy is being revisited as a model for dialogue and cooperation in addressing contemporary global challenges.
This message finds a natural resonance in Bahrain, where dialogue and coexistence remain central to the Kingdom’s cultural and social identity.
St. Francis of Assisi (1181–1228), remembered worldwide as a man of peace and dialogue, exemplified respect across differences through his historic encounter with the Sultan of Egypt in 1219. Centuries later, Isa Al Kabir, Shaikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa (1869–1932), carried forward a similar vision in Bahrain, opening doors to diverse communities and laying the foundations for a welcoming society built on exchange and understanding. Though separated by time and culture, both figures share a common legacy: their lives remind us that true strength lies in compassion, openness, and the embrace of diversity.
Events Announced
To honor this shared heritage, the Embassy of Italy and This is Bahrain will host a series of events in June 2026, designed to highlight values of coexistence, compassion, and dialogue:
• An intercultural and interreligious conference, bringing together leaders and scholars to reflect on the universal message of peace associated with St. Francis of Assisi, including his friendship with the Sultan of Egypt, the “Economy of St. Francis” as a response to modern-day scarcity and poverty, and the “Ecology of St. Francis” as a call to preserve the earth and regenerate resources.
• A national drawing competition for Bahraini schoolchildren and young artists, encouraging creative expression around themes of peace, friendship, and nature.
• A concert, Cantico delle Creature, celebrating the values of St. Francis of Assisi and his timeless message of harmony with creation and humanity.
Voices from the Event
The press conference also provided an opportunity for key speakers to reflect on the significance of the initiative.
H.E. Andrea Catalano, Ambassador of Italy to the Kingdom of Bahrain, emphasized:
“Eight centuries may have passed, yet the voice of St. Francis still speaks to our world. His call to peace and dialogue, once bridging cultures in a time of conflict, resounds with urgency in our own era of division and war. His legacy reminds us that the path to harmony is not found in conquest, but in compassion; not in walls, but in bridges; not in silence, but in dialogue. In listening to his timeless message, we discover the courage to heal the fractures of our modern age and to sow seeds of peace where discord reigns.”
Ms. Betsy Mathieson, Chairperson of This is Bahrain, stated:
“These principles of dignity, inclusion, and empowerment continue to shape Bahrain’s social and cultural landscape today.”
Conclusion
The “Bridges of Peace” initiative reflects a shared commitment between Italy and Bahrain to promote dialogue, coexistence, and mutual understanding.
By combining international leadership with local collaboration, the initiative demonstrates how cultural diplomacy can contribute to meaningful global engagement and reinforce values that remain essential in today’s world.
For more coverage on Bahrain cultural events, interfaith dialogue, and community initiatives, visit WhoDoesWhat TV, where we continue to document the stories shaping the Kingdom’s cultural and social landscape.
