Cardinal Parolin receives Path to Peace Award for diplomatic efforts

The Vatican Secretary of State, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, has been recognized for his diplomatic efforts in promoting peace. He received the Path to Peace Award on May 19 during a gala dinner in New York. Earlier that day, he addressed representatives at the United Nations headquarters to celebrate the election of Pope Leo XIV.

The Path to Peace Foundation, which grants this annual award, was established in 1991 by then-Archbishop Renato R. Martino. The foundation supports the Holy See’s mission at the U.N. through additional humanitarian and peace-building activities.

Cardinal Parolin expressed gratitude for receiving the award, stating he accepted it "on behalf of the pope and, above all, on behalf of the (Vatican) Secretariat of State." He described it as recognition of the Holy See's supportive relationship with the United Nations and those assisting the Pope in his mission.

He highlighted several milestones between the Holy See and the U.N., including anniversaries of visits by past popes such as St. Paul VI, St. John Paul II, and Pope Francis.

Reflecting on papal legacies, Cardinal Parolin quoted St. Paul VI’s declaration “Jamais plus la guerre!” ("Never again war!") as a call for peace rooted in spiritual renewal. He also noted St. John Paul II’s emphasis on human dignity and Pope Benedict XVI's focus on global challenges.

During his visit to the U.N., Pope Francis criticized what he termed a "culture of waste" affecting vulnerable populations. Cardinal Parolin stated that "the tradition lives on," emphasizing Pope Leo XIV's commitment to peace from his first words after election.

Cardinal Parolin underscored Catholic social teaching and urged continuous moral renewal within nations and institutions like the United Nations.

The Path to Peace Foundation is led by Archbishop Gabriele G. Caccia and promotes Catholic initiatives for peace while highlighting humanitarian issues globally.

Previous recipients of this award include Lech Walesa (1996), Cardinal Angelo Sodano (2004), Mary Ann Glendon (2010), and António Guterres (2020, 2021).

Gina Christian is a multimedia reporter for OSV News. Follow her on X @GinaJesseReina.