On Wednesday, July 29, 2026, I was honored to accompany the Holy Father in the “Canticle of Peace” event at the Pontifical Gardens in Castel Gandolfo.
This spiritual and cultural event was organized by the Laudato Si’ Center for Higher Education and the Andrea Bocelli Foundation. Pope Leo XIV led us in prayer, with the magnificent participation of the Andrea Bocelli Foundation’s Children’s Choir and Mr. Bocelli himself.
Afterward, I visited the Borgo Laudato Si’, a project close to the heart of the Holy Father that seeks to inspire a renewed culture of care for our common home rooted in our Faith.
The Diocese of Orange and I have shared this commitment to be good stewards of God’s Creation, in accordance with our Faith. In our way, the Diocese of Orange is putting into practice this commitment at the Ferrucci Avocado Ranch near Vista, California.
Pope Leo XIV was gracious to extend to all of you his Apostolic Blessing and greetings.
The Most Rev. Kevin W. Vann, D.D., J.C.D., D.Min.
Bishop of Orange