2026: Message of Pope Leo XIV

 

Pope Leo XIV praised the commemorative events of Olgiate Olona plane crash of June 26, 1959, and blessed the families of the seventy immortal lives, the promoting staff and all those who attended the ceremony marking the 67th anniversary of the air disaster.

The message dated June 5, 2026, signed by Monsignor Anthony Ekpo and sent to Alberto Colombo by the Secretariat of State of the Vatican City reads: Dear Mr. Alberto Colombo, with careful thought you shared with the Holy Father the commemorative events marking the 67th anniversary of the plane crash that occurred on June 26, 1959, requesting the gift of his word. Pope Leo XIV, who appreciated these praiseworthy initiatives, wishes to unite himself spiritually with the families grieving the loss of their loved ones, ensuring a special remembrance at the Altar and urging them to consider that «in the Crucifix, in that tormented man, the greatest love is manifested. It is there that we can recognize a God who is not distant, but penetrates our pain to the very depths [...] If manifested with the trust and freedom of the children of God, the anguished voice of our humanity, united with the voice of Christ, can become a source of hope for us and for those around us» (General Audience, September 10, 2025). Invoking the maternal intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, His Holiness imparts the desired Apostolic Blessing, which he willingly extends to those who have collaborated in the realization of this significant event and to all who will attend. I greet you cordially with the utmost respect.