Every year, World Day of Peace is celebrated on January 1. The day is primarily a Catholic feast day dedicated to universal peace on the Solemnity of Mary, the Mother of God. Pope Paul VI founded it in 1967, inspired by the encyclical Pacem in Terris of Pope John XXIII and regarding his own encyclical Populorum Progressio. On 1 January 1968, The day was first observed.
World Day of Peace – History
In 1967, the day started when Pope Paul VI announced that the world needs to be sensitized and oriented for peace and understanding. The day is Inspired by the papal letters “Pacem in Terris” and “Populorum Progressio”.
The theme of World Day of Peace is creating a culture of care. The sub-theme for 2020 was ‘Hope,’ which was introduced as a tribute to the world’s suffering from COVID-19.
National Heroes Day (Timor-Leste)
World Day of Peace – Dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | January 1 | Monday |
| 2025 | January 1 | Wednesday |
| 2026 | January 1 | Thursday |
| 2027 | January 1 | Friday |
| 2028 | January 1 | Saturday |
FAQs
What is the Catholic meaning of peace?
Peace in the Catholic tradition is associated with positive virtues such as love and social works such as justice.
When is World Day of Peace observed?
The World Day of Peace is an annual celebration held by the Catholic Church, It is dedicated to universal peace, celebrated on 1 January, the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God.