On the evening of Tuesday, December 3, 2024, the façade of the upper church of the Basilica of St Francis in Assisi was lit up in red, marking the eighth annual Giving Tuesday: A Worldwide Day of Giving.

This event was led by the AIFR-ETS Philanthropic Foundation [Italian Fundraising Association-Third Sector Entity], under the patronage of ANCI (National Association of Italian Municipalities), Assifero [Italian Association of Foundations and Philanthropic Entities], and CVSNet [Civic Volunteer Service Network]. This initiative fosters reflection on the value of giving and promotes generosity as a catalyst for social change by involving iconic monuments from cities around the world.
“This day of giving,” said Friar Giulio CESAREO, Director of the Communications Office of the Sacred Convent, “is a wonderful opportunity to remind each other of one of the central messages of Christian spirituality: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive’ (Acts 20:35). St. Francis himself began his journey of spiritual and religious conversion by sharing his possessions with the poor. In the light of today’s overwhelming, compulsive consumerism, exacerbated by commercial gimmicks like Black Friday, it is refreshing to return to what is essential and unique about our being human beings. While every living being needs food, space, and shelter to survive, generosity—sharing and giving something of ourselves for the good of others—are gestures that belong solely to humanity and enhance our dignity and beauty.”
Marco CECCHINI, President of the AIFR Foundation, explained that, “December 3, Giving Tuesday is a unique opportunity to show that Italy continues to be a country of great generosity. This day invites us to reflect on the value of giving and the strength of solidarity, especially in difficult times like those we are experiencing. Every small gesture counts and can truly make a difference in other’s lives. In an era in which social inequalities and emergencies are increasingly evident. It is crucial for us to unite and support one another. Generosity is a universal language that connects us and enables us to face present and future challenges.”

For more information, go to: https://givingtuesday.it/

Press Room – Andrea ROSSI
Sacred Convent of St. Francis