Location: San Fernando Cathedral
Pope Francis has said that “fraternity makes it possible to live together despite differences.” He said it in Italian. There is a word in Italian, very similar in sound and meaning in Spanish: “convivenza”. It may certainly be translated as coexistence, but also as sharing life; it is not the same. We do not merely exist in parallel. That is why this is such a wonderful “convivencia,” which is much more meaningful than a get-together.
Let us pray. Blessed are You, Lord, the Creator and Sustainer of all life, the One God of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and all our ancestors. In Your wisdom, You have made us in Your image, called us to be stewards of Your creation, and bound us together as one human family.
In this sacred season of Hanukkah, we gather to celebrate light over darkness, hope over despair, and faithfulness to the covenant You have established with Your people. As the menorah shines brightly, we are reminded of Your enduring presence and the ultimate triumph of faith.
Lord, You have called us to “convivir” – to live in harmony, respecting our diversity, united in shared purpose. We recall that we are descendants of Adam and Eve, all bound by Your covenant with Noah, and joined in the faith of Abraham. Teach us to love and seek peace, and to work together for justice, mercy, and kindness.
May this gathering deepen our bonds of friendship and understanding. May our dialogue honor our unique identities while celebrating the light we bring to each other’s lives. Inspire us to continue building a world where every heart burns with the light of Your love.
Bless this assembly, Lord, and grant us the courage to carry forth Your light, spreading it across the world for the sake of Your holy name.
We make this prayer to You, who are forever faithful, the God of all hope and life. Amen.
