On May 30, 2023, at 9:40 p.m., the 21st Annual Solidarity Concert entitled: “With the Heart in the Name of Francis” was broadcast on the RAI1 television channel [Radiotelevisione italiana] from the square before the Upper Basilica of the Basilica of St. Francis in Assisi.
The event was watched by millions and was emceed, as usual, by the popular showman, Carlo CONTI. The concert featured some internationally famous singers such as Fiorella MANNOIA, Amii STEWART, Nek, Francesco RENGA, Mr. Rain, and the Pooh band. The event was organized in collaboration between RAI and the Sacred Convent through Friar Enzo FORTUNATO. There were about a thousand spectators on the lawn in the square before the Upper Basilica.
A solidarity number (45515) is associated with the broadcast and will be active in Italy until mid-July. Using a land line or SMS, one may make a donation of €2.50 or €10.00 for solidarity initiatives in Italy and around the world, initiatives that support the most unfortunate and needy. The entities receiving aid from this year’s solidarity marathon include the medical center at our mission in Sabou, Burkina Faso, and our friary in Faenza, Italy, which was badly damaged by a recent flood.
Finally, during the broadcast, the Custos, Friar Marco MORONI, was able to show the public the original manuscript of the Later Rule of St. Francis. The Rule has been placed on display this year to celebrate the 800th anniversary of its approval.
The broadcast can be replayed for free on the RaiPlay Internet platform. It will also be rebroadcast on June 25, 2023 at 4:10 p.m. on the RAI1 channel.
The beautiful photos are by our confrere Friar Andrei CIOBANU.
Friar Giulio CESAREO
