Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican’s Secretary of State, was recently awarded the prestigious Path to Peace Award, an honor he humbly accepted not for himself, but on behalf of the Secretariat of State and the Holy See, whose mission is to promote justice and peace in an increasingly fractured world.
Speaking at the award ceremony held on May 19 in New York, Cardinal Parolin expressed profound appreciation, noting that this recognition transcended personal achievement. “I accept this award,” he declared, “on behalf of the Secretariat of State, which faithfully serves the Pope in his work for a more just and peaceful global community.”
The award, presented by the Path to Peace Foundation—established in 1991 by then-Archbishop Renato Martino—acknowledges the ongoing diplomatic and humanitarian efforts of the Holy See on the world stage, particularly through its presence at the United Nations.
Cardinal Parolin described the honor as a tribute to the teamwork and tireless commitment of all those within the Vatican who dedicate themselves to reconciliation and healing in a world scarred by violence, injustice, and division. He reaffirmed that the Vatican’s diplomacy is animated by a spiritual mission—a mission deeply rooted in papal legacy.
Reflecting on six decades of papal engagement with the United Nations, Cardinal Parolin highlighted milestone speeches by past Popes:
Pope Paul VI (1965): With prophetic clarity, he insisted that peace must arise from “spiritual and moral renewal,” warning that without ethical development, humanity risks losing its balance.
Pope John Paul II (1979, 1995): He offered a profound moral reflection on the tragedies of the 20th century, especially the Holocaust, urging the world to uphold the dignity of every human being amid the constant tension between good and evil.
Pope Benedict XVI (2008): He underscored that universal human rights are grounded in immutable truths and that defending human dignity is a collective obligation.
Pope Francis (2015): The Argentine Pontiff called attention to the connection between ecological care and social equity, denouncing a “throwaway culture” that devalues human life and the planet.
Turning to the present, Cardinal Parolin referenced Pope Leo XIV, who has continued this tradition by calling for a peace that is “disarmed and disarming”—a peace that offers healing in an age of deep division. The Cardinal pointed to the Pope’s deliberate choice of name, a nod to Catholic social teaching, and an urgent reminder of the need to uphold dignity and justice in an era shaped by unprecedented technological change.
Cardinal Parolin emphasized the enduring, though sometimes challenging, relationship between the Holy See and the UN. He described this partnership as a “mutual journey,” one that requires humility, courage, and the creative will to reform—not only institutions, but the human heart itself.
He urged the international body to pursue both structural and spiritual renewal, stating: “The real transformation of our world lies not merely in signed resolutions, but in awakening conscience and cultivating compassion.”
In closing, the Cardinal thanked the Path to Peace Foundation for its unwavering support of the Holy See’s diplomatic mission. He reaffirmed the Vatican’s commitment to walk alongside humanity on the difficult road to justice, driven by faith and sustained by hope.
“This award,” he said, “is not a conclusion but a call—to continue serving the Pope’s mission for a world where peace is not only possible but inevitable through the daily choices we make for justice and human dignity.”