On Friday, 13 February 2026, the presidents of four European Bishops’ Conferences released a joint appeal entitled “Christians for Europe. The Power of Hope”, calling for a renewed rediscovery of Europe’s soul and its contribution to the common good at a time marked by conflict, division and uncertainty. Read the Appeal: IT – DE – FR – PL
The bishops stress that Europe must not be reduced to a mere economic or financial market. Rather, it is called to renew its commitment to solidarity, openness and peace, drawing on the legacy of its Christian roots and the vision of its founding fathers in order to confront nationalism and foster reconciliation across the continent.
“Europe must rediscover its soul in order to offer the whole world its indispensable contribution to the common good,”the appeal states. It recalls that Christianity has been one of the essential foundations of the continent and has largely shaped the face of a humanistic and supportive Europe.
“Today we live in a pluralistic Europe, characterised by linguistic diversity, regional cultural differences and numerous religious and spiritual traditions. Although Christians are fewer in number, this does not prevent them from returning, with courage and perseverance, to the foundation of their hope.”
The text further emphasises that Europe is called to seek alliances capable of laying the groundwork for authentic solidarity among peoples. The world needs Europe, the bishops write, and Christians must make this urgency their own, committing themselves decisively to its future with the same lively awareness shown by the EU founding fathers.
Recalling Pope Leo XIV’s words at the conclusion of the Jubilee, they add that Christians are called to be “pilgrims of hope”, actively engaged in building a more humane and united Europe for all.
The appeal was signed by Cardinal Matteo Maria Zuppi (Italian Bishops’ Conference), Cardinal Jean-Marc Aveline (French Bishops’ Conference), Archbishop Tadeusz Wojda (Polish Bishops’ Conference) and Bishop Georg Bätzing (German Bishops’ Conference).
On the same day, the President of the Commission of the Bishops’ Conferences of the European Union (COMECE), Bishop Mariano Crociata, commented on the appeal to the press: “I have read with great interest the Message on Europe issued by the Presidents of the four Episcopal Conferences of Italy, France, Germany and Poland. It comes at a crucial moment that the European Union is currently experiencing and deserves full recognition and careful consideration. This initiative is a sign that the Spirit is at work and is calling the Church in Europe, in its various expressions, to offer the continent a message of hope at this particularly challenging time, providing a valuable impetus to renew the project of peace and prosperity that the European Union embodies.”