Speaking to organizers of the Zayed Award for Human Fraternity, Pope Leo XIV reflects on the need to be witnesses of kindness and charity in a world marked by division, whilst also taking concrete steps towards achieving fraternity.
Vatican News
Meeting with the organizers of the Zayed Award for Human Fraternity at the Vatican, Pope Leo XIV expressed his joy to be with the group “who place their talents, vision and moral convictions at the noble service of human fraternity.”
The Zayed Award is an independent and international prize which recognizes individuals or organizations around the world who work to bridge divides and build genuine human, often at personal sacrifice.
In the meeting, the Pope reflected on how the creation of the Zayed Award stemmed from the signing of the Document on Human Fraternity by Pope Francis and Grand Imam Ahmed Al-Tayeb, supported by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The Holy Father explained the Award embodies the legacy of the Sheikh and other leaders.
Moreover, Pope Leo highlighted how the Zayed Award “emphasizes that every human being and every religion is called to promote fraternity.” He recalled Pope Francis’ words that the different religious traditions can help contribute to building fraternity.
Acknowledging the current situation in the world, the Pope challenged everyone to be “authentic testimonies of human kindness and charity to remind us that we are all brothers and sisters.” But, he warned, “words are not enough.” Concrete actions must also be taken because, without them, even our best and most hopeful goals will “weaken and fade away.”
The Zayed Award helps recognize and honor individuals and organizations who take concrete actions “to demonstrate compassion and solidarity, offering tangible examples as to how we can promote human fraternity today.”
Pope Leo concluded by assuring the organizers of his prayers and encouraging them in their dedicated work “for the good of the human family.”
