On January 1, 2023, Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem His Beatitude Pierbattista Pizzaballa, presided at the Pontifical Mass dedicated to the World Day of Peace and the Solemnity of Mary, Holy Mother of God. The Holy Mass took place in the Pro-Cathedral of the Patriarchate and was concelebrated by Mgr William Shomali, General Vicar, Mgr Adolfo Tito Yllana, Apostolic Nuncio to the Holy Land, and Fr. Francesco Patton, ofm, Custos of the Holy Land.

As the new year 2023 begins, Pope Francis sent a special message for the World Day of Peace, inviting all people to pray for peace in the world and to reflect on the importance of building peace. It came in line with the long tradition of messages released by the Pope at the beginning of each year - a tradition that began with St. Paul VI in 1967 and continued with St. John Paul II, Pope Benedict XVI, and Pope Francis. 

During this day, the faithful also turned to the Mother of God to invoke her intercession for peace in the world and to celebrate Her as the Mother of Jesus Christ. The Holy Mass was attended not only by local Christians, but also pilgrims, including scouts from Italy.

“We are used to invoking from God, through the mediation of the Blessed Virgin, the gift of peace: and that is beautiful, and good. However, we must not forget that peace cannot be found if the path of our prayers does not meet the path of our choices,” said His Beatitude in his homily. 

After the Holy Mass, Sisters from different congregations, Knights and Dames of the Holy Sepulcher, as well as the faithful who attended greeted the Patriarch, the bishops and the clergy.