The Holy Father was pleased to be informed of the Eighth World Summit of the Nobel Peace Laureates, due to take place in Rome from 13 to 15 December 2007, and he sends cordial greetings to all who have come together for this occasion. He gives thanks to God for the achievements of those men and women who have made significant contributions to the promotion of peace and the resolution of conflict in today's world. If an authentic culture of peace is truly to spread throughout the international community, then it has to take root deep within the heart of every person (cf. Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Church, 495). Hiss Holiness prays that, through the leadership shown by men and women of peace, the hearts of many may continue to be touched, so that healing and reconciliation may take the place of hostility and violence. With these sentiments, the Holy Father invokes upon all the partecipants at the Summit the gift of God's peace, which the world cannot give (ef. Jn 14:27).

Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone
Secretary of State