8 Million Steps for Peace achieved:
Crowdfunding Campaign to reach Jerusalem kicks off today
Assisi, 25 July 2024 – An extraordinary milestone has been reached as part of the global “Steps for Peace” initiative promoted by the Economy of Francesco. Over 8 million steps have been contributed by thousands of young people around the world, thus covering the distance between Assisi and Jerusalem. So many steps are still in progress; therefore, it is possible to continue giving steps for peace.
“Steps for Peace” is not just a physical journey, but is a unique opportunity to extend meetings and debates on the economy of peace. This project is inspired by the pact that the youth of the Economy of Francesco signed with Pope Francis in 2022, a commitment to build a future based on principles of justice, sustainability and dialogue.
Arrival in Israel and Palestine
The highlight of the initiative will be in October, when a worldwide delegation from Assisi will reach Jerusalem and then proceed to Palestine. It will be hosted by the Custody of the Holy Land and will have moments of fraternity and discussion with the parish of Jerusalem.
The delegation of the Economy of Francesco will also meet with the Patriarch of Jerusalem, Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, to deliver to him, and to the young participants, the steps that have been gathered around the world to build an economy of peace.
Each step is a witness to a commitment to peace that has already involved thousands of young people.
Afterwards, the delegation will travel to Bethlehem where they will meet with some Palestinian communities and experience a meaningful moment in the children’s hospital, the Caritas Baby Hospital in Bethlehem.
The Goal Achieved and the New Challenge
By reaching 8 million steps, the initiative has already achieved tremendous success, but the journey does not end there. In addition to the opportunity to give more steps for peace, the challenge will be to raise the necessary funds to support the delegation that will travel to the Holy Land. The goal of the crowdfunding campaign, which is hosted on the designated page www.francescoeconomy.org/steps-for-peace/, is to raise 15,000 euros. These funds will be used to cover the expenses for travel, lodging, and the organization of events there. The hope of the organizers is to reach the target set so that aid can also be donated to Caritas Baby Hospital in Bethlehem, a gesture that further underscores the commitment to peace and solidarity.
A Call to Solidarity
The crowdfunding campaign is now active on the website of the Economy of Francesco, and every donation, large or small, is of paramount importance. Those who wish to contribute can do so by visiting www.francescoeconomy.org/steps-for-peace/ or clicking on the Steps for Peace banner.
The “Steps for Peace” journey represents an extraordinary opportunity to sow the values of peace, dialogue, and hope. Everyone’s support is essential to turn this dream into reality and bring the message of an economy of peace all the way to Jerusalem.
Make a difference. Give now and walk with us for peace!
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Statistics of Steps for Peace:
Continents reached by Steps for Peace: 5
Countries where the Steps for Peace walks have been organized: Brazil, Portugal, Italy, Bangladesh, Spain, Mexico, Canada, Vietnam, Haiti, Nigeria, Sri Lanka, USA, Poland, Argentina, Chile, Singapore, Benin, Netherlands, Uganda, Senegal
Organized walks: 135
Steps given to Steps for Peace: 8,188,728
Crowdfunding target: €15,000
Youth involved: around 2,000
Conclusion of the journey: Jerusalem, Bethlehem
