Europe elected a new parliament in May and Kolping Europe also had some major events such as the 52nd International Kolping Peace Walk in Vianden, Luxembourg. Many hikers became painfully aware of the importance of peace in Europe and that we cannot take it for granted. In view of the threatening election success of right-wing populists who wish to reduce political cooperation on the continent to a minimum, many participants were encouraged to show their colours for a peaceful Europe. The participants went on a hike together with the General Praeses of KOLPING INTERNATIONAL, Msgr. Ottmar Dillenburg and prayed for an alert Europe.
At the Continental Convention in Rome, delegates were also encouraged to be on the alert. In an educational part on Saturday morning, Prof. Riccardo Pozzi, OSCE (Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe) Special Representative of and advisor to the Chairperson-in-Office gave a presentation on the signing of the “Roman Treaties” in Rome in 1957.
Professor Pozzi welcomed Kolping Europe’s Declaration entitled “We need Europe to be effective and strong!“ It underlines that there is a need for people with values and ambition, hope and a political will. The principles of Catholic social teaching – human dignity, subsidiarity and solidarity – give an orientation for a sustainable European policy committed to the common good. The convention ended on Sunday with a joint visit of delegates to St. Peter’s Square for the Angelus prayer with Pope Francis greeting the delegates of the Continental Convention warmly.
