Pope reflects on pilgrimages, announces awards in message to pontifical academies

November 11, 2015

As the pontifical academies gathered to discuss the theme of “historic pilgrimage trails during the first centuries of Christianity,” Pope Francis wrote that “life is a pilgrimage and the human being is a pilgrim.”

“Your reflections will contribute to enhance the significance of Christian pilgrimage,” the Pope said in his November 10 message to the academies. “Pilgrimage is an experience that involves mercy, sharing, and solidarity.”

The Pontiff announced that Pontifical Academies Prizes would be awarded to the Campo Arqueológico de Mértola (Portugal), for its work on archeological campaigns, and to Matteo Braconi, for his dissertation on the Basilica of Santa Pudenziana in Rome.

The Pope also announced the Medal of the Pontificate would be awarded to Almudena Alba López for her research on Arianism and political theology.

 

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Further information:

• Messaggio del Santo Padre ai partecipanti alla XX Seduta Pubblica delle Pontificie Accademie, 10.11.2015 (Holy See Press Office)
• Pope Francis sends message to Pontifical Academies (Vatican Radio)