Pope to Vatican Museums Patrons: Art builds bridges in times of division

By Francesca Merlo

Pope Francis on Thursday extended his greetings to the Patrons of the Arts, expressing gratitude for their commitment to "the important work of preserving and restoring the artistic and cultural patrimony of the Vatican Museums."

He commended the Patrons for their appreciation of the diverse forms of art, emphasising its power to illuminate the beauty of God's Creation and the mysteries embedded in human life.

"Your commitment is a concrete sign of your appreciation of the potential of the arts, in their many forms, to open minds and hearts to the beauty of God’s Creation and the richness and mystery of our human life and calling," Pope Francis said.

Preserving a legacy

The Pope underscored the importance of the Patrons' mission to promote the Vatican's cultural heritage.

"The work of conservation to which you contribute not only safeguards this precious legacy of the past, but also invites new generations to reflect on the profound interplay between art, history, culture and faith," he said.

Pope Francis also highlighted the transformative power of art, particularly religious art.

"Art, and religious art in particular, can bring a message of mercy, compassion, and encouragement not only to believers, but also to those who doubt, who feel lost, unsure, or possibly alone. For art always speaks to the soul."

Art as a bridge of solidarity

In a world marked by division and conflict, Pope Francis emphasised the role of art in fostering solidarity and building bridges between cultures and peoples. "Art refreshes the human spirit, just as water replenishes the dry and parched desert," he stated.

Reflecting on the forty-year history of the Patrons, Pope Francis praised their collective responsibility to cherish and preserve the priceless artistic heritage entrusted to the Vatican Museums.

"The forty-year history of the Patrons has been inspired not only by love of the arts, but also by the conviction that each generation has a collective responsibility to cherish and preserve the priceless heritage with which we have been entrusted," he said.

In conclusion, Pope Francis renewed his appreciation for the Patrons' support of the Vatican Museums' mission and encouraged them to persevere in their endeavors.

"With these sentiments, dear friends, I renew my appreciation for your support of the mission of the Vatican Museums, and I encourage you to persevere in your praiseworthy enterprise," concluded the Pope. "Upon you and your families, and upon all associated with the work of the Patrons of the Arts, I cordially invoke the blessings of Almighty God, the eternal source of all beauty, truth and goodness."