What symbolic element appears on the special Vatican postmark commemorating Pope Francis’s visit to Ajaccio, and what does it represent?
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| A dove flying over the Mediterranean, symbolizing peace among nations |
| The silhouette of Corsica with a Cross, representing the Congress on popular religiosity |
| The Vatican coat of arms, symbolizing papal authority over the island |
| The silhouette of Corsica with a Cross, representing the Congress on popular religiosity |
Your answer was: The Vatican coat of arms, symbolizing papal authority over the island. |
Answer:
On the occasion of the Apostolic Journey of His Holiness Pope Francis to Ajaccio, Corsica, on December 15, 2024, the Vatican Postal and Philatelic Service issued a special commemorative postmark (no new stamps). The circular postmark, 38 mm in diameter, features a graphic design of Pope Francis in a gesture of greeting toward the silhouette of Corsica, upon which stands a Cross—symbolizing the logo of the Congress “La religiosité populaire en Méditerranée.” The inscriptions “PAPA FRANCESCO AD AJACCIO,” “POSTE VATICANE,” and “15 DIC. 2024” complete the design. This postmark commemorates the Pope’s visit for the conclusion of the aforementioned congress, which gathered religious and cultural leaders from across the Mediterranean to explore the role of popular religiosity in shaping faith and identity. Held in Ajaccio, the congress emphasized themes such as the spiritual richness of popular piety, its role in evangelization, and its capacity to foster unity across diverse cultures. In his address, Pope Francis highlighted popular piety as a vibrant and authentic expression of faith rooted in the lives of ordinary people, calling it a “festive” and “evangelizing” force. His visit included a public Mass, an Angelus prayer, and meetings with both ecclesial and civil authorities, underscoring the Vatican’s commitment to dialogue and cultural engagement in the Mediterranean region.
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