Beauty and Hope: Antidotes to Cynicism and Fear at the World Expo 2025

Cardinal Pietro Parolin’s Greetings to the Japanese People

To celebrate the National Day of the Holy See at the World Expo 2025 in Osaka, Japan, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican Secretary of State, delivered a heartfelt message on behalf of Pope Leo XIV. In his greeting, he conveyed warm wishes to the Japanese people, emphasizing a shared hope for prosperity and peace.

This occasion is particularly significant as it marks an important milestone in the long-standing relationship between the Holy See and Japan, which dates back to 1555, the year of the first papal audience with a Japanese Catholic. Cardinal Parolin’s acknowledgment of this historical connection underlines the depth of cultural and diplomatic ties that have flourished over the centuries.

Eighty Years of Shared Values

The cardinal took a moment to reflect on the 80 years of formal diplomatic relations between Japan and the Holy See, a relationship not only rooted in religious dialogue but also in shared social values. Despite their distinct cultural backgrounds, Cardinal Parolin highlighted an ongoing commitment to mutual understanding and appreciation.

This connection is further enriched by the Catholic Church’s involvement in essential services within Japanese society, including education, healthcare, and social assistance. Such initiatives have fostered a collaborative spirit that transcends religious differences, promoting the common good.

The Importance of Peace in a Turbulent World

In his address, Cardinal Parolin also touched on the shared aspiration for a peaceful and stable world. He recalled the painful memories of Hiroshima and Nagasaki—events that have profoundly shaped the global narrative around peace and reconciliation. The cardinal called for a united effort to address pressing challenges, particularly concerning the arms race, underscoring the Church’s enduring commitment to advocacy for disarmament.

Beauty: A Universal Language

As part of the Holy See Pavilion’s theme at the Expo, Cardinal Parolin emphasized the transformative power of beauty and hope. These concepts, he argued, are especially pertinent in today’s turbulent world, serving as vital antidotes to a culture mired in cynicism and fear.

Reflecting on the essence of beauty, the cardinal posited that it encourages recognition of the intrinsic value that exists in the world and promotes a sense of responsibility to defend it. This beauty, be it in nature, art, or human kindness, acts as a balm for the heart in challenging times. Parolin remarked that it transcends linguistic and cultural barriers, fostering a spirit of solidarity among individuals and communities.

He also urged that it is essential to celebrate "social beauty," borne from acts of kindness, community service, and reconciliation efforts. Such initiatives not only exemplify beauty in action but also plant the seeds for renewal in a fractured society.

Nurturing the “Breath of Beauty”

Cardinal Parolin called attention to the often-overlooked contributions of those working selflessly in education, social services, and peace-building. Their quiet yet impactful efforts serve to cultivate beauty in shared human experiences, countering the challenges faced in daily life. These individuals illuminate pathways for healing, bringing light to the darker corners of contemporary existence.

The Role of Hope in Overcoming Fear

Hope, as articulated by Cardinal Parolin, is inextricably linked to the pursuit of beauty. This hope is not merely an abstract notion; for Christians, it is rooted in a profound trust in God and a belief in divine love for humanity. It expands beyond individual aspirations, fostering a sense of community and collective purpose.

The cardinal emphasized the urgent need for hope, especially in an age plagued by fear and violence. He stated that it serves as an antidote to pervasive anxiety about the future. Hope not only motivates individuals toward personal and communal service but also calls for unwavering dialogue and collaboration at an international level, particularly in times of conflict.

As the Holy See Pavilion unfolds its themes of beauty and hope throughout the World Expo, it serves as a testament to faith’s potential to inspire collective action and foster a more compassionate world. In a time marked by division, these ideals become essential pillars for nurturing peace and solidarity across nations.