During its plenary assembly in Salzburg, the Council of European Bishops’ Conferences (CCEE) issues an appeal calling for an end to wars and conflicts: “True peace is not an agreement to be negotiated; it begins in the human heart.”
By Giovanni Zavatta
The Council of European Bishops’ Conferences (CCEE) issued an appeal for a just and lasting peace in Ukraine and in all war-torn regions, as they gathered in Salzburg for their plenary assembly, which ran from October 27 to October 30.
“Our continent of Europe is facing the largest military conflict since World War II,” the bishops emphasized.
“No one can remain indifferent to the atrocities taking place in Ukraine. Indeed, we must never become accustomed to such blatant violations of the norms of civilization.”
Following the example of Saint Francis of Assisi
The CCEE recalled that peace is built through forgiveness, prayer, and concrete acts of reconciliation. They also noted how this message is particularly relevant this year, which marks the 800th anniversary of the death of Saint Francis of Assisi, “a true disciple of Jesus Christ” and a “teacher of peace and reconciliation.”
“True peace cannot be imposed; it is not a deal to be struck. It begins in the human heart,” the statement reads.
The CCEE also expressed its closeness to all victims of war, violence, and displacement, as well as to those who look to the future with fear and uncertainty.
Joining in Pope Leo XIV’s Prayer
The CCEE joined Pope Leo XIV in calling for an “unarmed and disarming peace, humble and persevering.”
On October 27, on the occasion of the 40th anniversary of the International Meeting for Peace in Assisi, the Pope reaffirmed that “there is no such thing as a holy war: only peace is holy!”
The presidents of the European bishops’ conferences concluded by encouraging “all people of good will to engage in genuine peacebuilding.”
“And,” they continued, “we unite ourselves with our Holy Father in his plea: ‘May our prayers obtain from God that peace for the world’s nations for which we long. May he make us unarmed instruments of his peace.’”
Archbishop Grušas reconfirmed as President
On October 29, the assembly confirmed Archbishop Gintaras Grušas of Vilnius, Lithuania, as president for the five-year term 2026–2031.
It also elected Archbishop Eamon Martin of Armagh, Ireland, and Archbishop Dražen Kutleša of Zagreb, Croatia, as vice-presidents.
Introducing the plenary sessions, which focused on the theme “Evangelization and Synodality: The Mission of Priests in Europe Today,” Archbishop Grušas observed that evangelization and synodality represent a single missionary vision.
Evangelization expresses the reason behind the Church’s mission, while synodality describes how that mission is carried out, through communion, listening, and shared discernment, he explained.
Speaking about the mission of priests, the president emphasized the importance of comprehensive and ongoing formation, as well as closeness with families in the transmission of the faith.
He called for a renewal of pastoral relationships, structures, and priorities so that priests may joyfully live out their vocation in the service of evangelization.
Cardinal Grech on the synodal process in local Churches
Cardinal Mario Grech, Secretary General of the Synod, also addressed the assembly in Salzburg, exploring the importance of local Churches in the synodal process and its implementation phase.
Every diocese is a living manifestation of the Church, the Cardinal said, where the Gospel is proclaimed, the sacraments are celebrated and the faithful are gathered in communion with Christ.
Each local Church brings gifts and experiences that no other community can offer in its place, enriching the entire ecclesial body.
Looking ahead to the Ecclesial Assembly scheduled to take place at the Vatican in October 2028, Cardinal Grech encouraged the Churches in Europe to recognize themselves both as recipients and bearers of a gift for the whole Church, helping to build unity and reconciliation.
Cardinal You and the mission of priests in Europe today
On October 29 during the proceedings, Cardinal Lazzaro You Heung-sik, Prefect of the Dicastery for the Clergy, addressed the assembly on the theme “The Mission of Priests in Europe Today in the Light of Evangelii Gaudium.”
The Cardinal highlighted the need for priests who are capable of accompanying others with mercy, serving the poor and building bridges through dialogue.
Priestly fraternity remains essential: the presbyterate should be a family and a home where no one is left alone, he concluded.
