“Tourism linking cultures”is the theme of World Tourism Day to be observed on 27 September, the President of Vatican’s Pontifical Council for the Pastoral Care of Migrants and Itinerant People said in a message released on Wednesday. Archbishop Mario Veglio said the theme highlights the importance that travelling has in a meeting of the different cultures of the world, especially in our present day world, when more than nine hundred million people travel internationally, being favoured by modern means of communication and reduced costs. The prelate noted that tourism is an activity that breaks down barriers between cultures and promotes tolerance, respect and mutual understanding. In our often divided world, these values represent the stepping stones towards a more peaceful future. Archbishop Veglio said that once diversity has been accepted as a positive factor, it is necessary to ensure that people, not only accept the existence of other cultures but also desire to be enriched by them. Archbishop Veglio said the main objective of our pastoral care of tourism will be to educate and prepare Christians, so that these cultural encounters are productive in their travels and not lost opportunities, and that they truly serve one’s personal enrichment.
The prelate stressed that the Church has much to contribute, as it has an immense cultural patrimony. It must be a priority of our pastoral care of tourism to show the true meaning of this cultural heritage, born from faith and for the glory of God, he added.
World Tourism Day is promoted by United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO). It has enjoyed the support of the Holy See since its first celebration in 1980.
