Italy’s most important music festival, the San Remo Festival, had an unexpected guest this year: Pope Francis. Through a video message, the Holy Father used the festival’s platform to share a message of peace and hope, emphasizing the power of music as an “instrument of coexistence among peoples.”
A call for unity through music
The Pope’s message, broadcast live from Casa Santa Marta to millions of viewers, highlighted the plight of many children worldwide who “cry and suffer due to the many injustices in the world.”
Yet, he also expressed a deep human and Christian longing:
“What I desire most is to see those who have hated each other shake hands, embrace, and proclaim through life, music, and song: Peace is possible!,” COPE reported.
San Remo, known for launching the careers of Italian artists and selecting Italy’s Eurovision representative, became an unexpected stage for reflection. Pope Francis recalled how his mother introduced him to the beauty of music, teaching him its power to convey harmony and meaning. He also mentioned the recent World Children’s Day, a gathering of young people from diverse backgrounds that he described as a “beautiful moment” of hope.
The Church and music: A long tradition
The Pope’s words at San Remo echo a long and rich tradition of the Catholic Church embracing music as a means of uplifting the soul and uniting people. From Gregorian chant in medieval monasteries to the soaring compositions of Mozart and Beethoven, sacred music has long been an integral part of worship and culture.
The Catechism of the Catholic Church states that music “adds delight to prayer, fosters unity of minds, and confers greater solemnity upon the sacred rites” (CCC 1157). This belief extends beyond church walls — throughout history, Catholic musicians and composers have used their art to communicate faith, peace, and human dignity to the world.
Pope Francis’ message at a secular event like San Remo is a reminder that music is not only a form of entertainment but also a force for unity and healing. Just as sacred hymns have comforted generations of believers, today’s songs can also inspire hope and bring people together across differences.
A message that moved Italy
The Pope’s words resonated deeply with the audience. Those present at the Teatro Ariston gave him a standing ovation. Festival host Carlo Conti, introducing a special performance by Israeli singer Noa and Palestinian artist Mira Awad, thanked Francis for his message.
“The Pope is in all our hearts. He often raises his voice to cry out for peace in the world,” Conti remarked. “I asked if he could send a thought for this moment, and he did even more.”
Pope Francis’ unexpected appearance at San Remo was a powerful reminder that in a world too often divided, music can be a bridge — one that leads not only to beauty but also to understanding and peace.
