( July,6 , 2011) “Tourism linking cultures”is the theme of World Tourism Day to be
observed on 27 September, the President of Vatican’s Pontifical Council for the
Pastoral Care of Migrants and Itinerant People said in a message released on Wednesday.
Archbishop Mario Veglio said the theme highlights the importance that travelling
has in a meeting of the different cultures of the world, especially in our present
day world, when more than nine hundred million people travel internationally, being
favoured by modern means of communication and reduced costs. The prelate noted
that tourism is an activity that breaks down barriers between cultures and promotes
tolerance, respect and mutual understanding. In our often divided world, these values
represent the stepping stones towards a more peaceful future. Archbishop Veglio
said that once diversity has been accepted as a positive factor, it is necessary
to ensure that people, not only accept the existence of other cultures but also desire
to be enriched by them. Archbishop Veglio said the main objective of our pastoral
care of tourism will be to educate and prepare Christians, so that these cultural
encounters are productive in their travels and not lost opportunities, and that they
truly serve one’s personal enrichment. The prelate stressed that the Church has
much to contribute, as it has an immense cultural patrimony. It must be a priority
of our pastoral care of tourism to show the true meaning of this cultural heritage,
born from faith and for the glory of God, he added. World Tourism Day is promoted
by United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO). It has enjoyed the support
of the Holy See since its first celebration in 1980.