Official naming ceremony of the Benedetto da Norcia room

On Tuesday, the ECR Group will hold a ceremony in Strasbourg to officially name its meeting room WIC 200 after Benedetto da Norcia (Benedict of Nursia). The figure of Benedict was instrumental in shaping the European Renaissance and the development of western culture. His mission brought forth a new and brighter era for Europe. In fact, the Benedictine monasteries became important centres for the education of young people and were instrumental for the rebirth of a linguistically, ethnically and culturally united Europe. In the second half of the twentieth century, as modern Europe was recovering from its own darkness, the impetus to spiritual unity and order provided by Benedict made him an obvious choice as Patron Saint of all Europe. European Parliament President Roberta Metsola will attend the ceremony. Following the naming ceremony, a conference “Roots that shape the future: Saint Benedict and the values that moulded Europe” will take place in the newly named room to reflect on the enduring relevance of the Benedictine tradition, its contribution to European history and its connection to the fundamental values of Europe.

Official naming ceremony:

When: Tuesday @ 15:30

Where: WIC 200

Conference:

When: Tuesday @ 16:00

Where: WIC 200

AGENDA

15:30: Official naming ceremony of the “Benedetto da Norcia” meeting room

16:00: Conference

ROOTS THAT SHAPE THE FUTURE Saint Benedict and the values that molded Europe

Opening remarks

• Antonella Sberna, Vice-President of the European Parliament
• Nicola Procaccini, Co-Chair of the ECR Group in the European Parliament
• Marco Squarta, Member of the ECR Group in the European Parliament

The Benedictine journey: three cities, a single European heritage

• Speeches by the Mayors of Norcia, Subiaco and Cassino

A father for Europe: Saint Benedict and the pursuit of Knowledge

• Rod Dreher, writer and editor (via video connection)

Europe’s roots, values and future

• Bernardito Cleopas Auza, Apostolic Nuncio to the European Union
• Jeremias Schroder, Abbot Primate of the Order of Saint Benedict

Moderator: Andrea Gagliarducci, Vatican correspondent