Pope Leo XIV Blesses Torch of Peace and Forgiveness on Journey from Chicago to Cascia
Vatican City – Pope Leo XIV blessed the Santa Rita Torch of Forgiveness and Peace this week, as it continues its pilgrimage from Chicago to Cascia, Italy. The torch, a symbol of reconciliation and hope, began its journey on March 14, 2026, in Chicago, which is Cascia’s sister city for the annual Rite celebrations.
Chicago to Vatican: A Symbolic Journey
The torch was first lit in the parish dedicated to Saint Rita in Chicago’s Ashburn neighborhood. A delegation from Cascia, including Mayor Mario De Carolis and Father Giustino Casciano, rector of the Basilica of Santa Rita, accompanied by representatives from the monastery and the Santa Rita da Cascia Foundation, attended the lighting ceremony. Representatives from the Diocese of Chicago, the municipality, and the Order of Saint Augustine were also present.
Prior to arriving at the Vatican, the torch was taken to the Catholic Theological Union in Chicago, where Pope Leo XIV completed his studies. Father Enzo Del Brocco, director and president of the seminary, highlighted the significance of the torch’s presence at the institution, noting its potential to promote dialogue and diplomacy in a world marked by conflict.
A Personal Connection to Dolton, Illinois
The torch then made a stop in Dolton, Illinois, the birthplace of Pope Leo XIV, where the Cascia delegation visited the house where he spent his childhood. This stop symbolically connected Cascia with the Pontiff’s roots, reinforcing the message of peace and forgiveness associated with Saint Rita.
Pope Leo XIV’s Blessing and Message of Hope
Upon arriving at the Vatican, Pope Leo XIV blessed the torch, imbuing it with his support for its mission of promoting reconciliation. Father Casciano emphasized the importance of Saint Rita’s message in today’s world, stating that “without a deep relationship with God, it is difficult to build authentic relationships between people.” The abbess of the Monastery of Saint Rita echoed this sentiment, expressing hope that the torch would carry a message of peace and forgiveness to a world “wounded by wars, divisions and tensions.”
The torch will continue its journey to Cascia, where it will be used in the celebrations of May 22.