Vatican (SE): St. Peter’s Square in Vatican City came alive on September 13, for the historic Grace for the World concert which marked the conclusion of the World Meeting on Human Fraternity.
Over 253,000 attendees of all ages queued for hours to be part unprecedented event, transforming the iconic square into a vibrant celebration of music, culture, and unity.
The event opened with a breathtaking display of over 3,000 illuminated drones that painted the night sky, showcasing images of Pope Francis and Michelangelo’s masterpieces.
The atmosphere was electric as world-renowned tenor, Andrea Bocelli, and American singer, Teddy Swims, performed a moving rendition of “Amazing Grace,” setting a tone of reverence and hope.
The lineup featured a diverse array of artists, including Pharrell Williams, John Legend, Jennifer Hudson and Karol G, who each contributed to a rich tapestry of musical styles, from gospel to hip-hop.
Pharrell, who played a role in organizing the event, emphasised the importance of fraternity and compassion, urging the audience to embrace their shared humanity.
Throughout the evening, powerful speeches resonated with the crowd. Notable figures like Graça Machel, widow of Nelson Mandela, and Nobel laureates, Kailash Satyarthi, and Nadia Murad, shared messages of justice and empathy, calling for a commitment to peace in regions affected by conflict.
The concert not only celebrated artistic expression but also served as a platform for dialogue and reflection on pressing global issues.
It concluded the two-day World Meeting on Human Fraternity, which had gathered 500 participants to discuss themes of peace, environmental stewardship, and cultural dialogue.
The final statement from the meeting underscored the need for collective action towards a more just and compassionate world, reinforcing the concert’s message of unity.
As the night drew to a close, the illuminated drones once again lit up the sky, leaving a lasting impression of hope and solidarity among all who attended.
The Grace for the World concert will be remembered as a landmark event in the Vatican’s history, symbolising a new era of openness and engagement within the Church and beyond.
