“This is a rare cultural moment where the world stops and collectively tunes in. It is a message of unity and grace for all of humanity,” Pharrell Williams, director of the historic concert, stated.
The concert
“Grace for the World” marked the conclusion of the third World Meeting on Human Fraternity.
It also celebrated the Catholic Jubilee Holy Year. The Jubilee marks the 2,025th anniversary of Jesus Christ’s incarnation.
During the world meeting, Nobel laureates discussed several global issues. Their discussions covered topics ranging from agriculture and the economy to sports.
The meeting concluded with a historic concert in St. Peter’s Square.
Pharrell Williams and Andrea Bocelli co-directed the concert. It marked the first musical event of its kind at the Vatican that welcomed the public.
Bocelli also shared a message about the event.
“Let us shine a spotlight on humanity with music from the very heart of Christianity and the most important spiritual square, reaching the entire world with a single message of brotherhood and peace,” Bocelli stated.
The concert also marked an important moment for Bocelli. Five years earlier, he performed live from Milan’s Duomo on Easter Sunday.
That performance took place during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Performers for the concert
The concert brought together major pop stars from different musical genres.
Both co-directors also joined the performances. Williams and Bocelli each appeared on stage during the event.
Bocelli opened the concert alongside Teddy Swims. The pair performed their rendition of “Amazing Grace”.
Next, John Legend performed “Glory” and “Bridge over Troubled Water”.
Jennifer Hudson also performed her new song, “Find the Love”.
She later joined Bocelli for a duet of “The Prayer”.
Meanwhile, the event featured several other international stars.
Karol G, Jelly Roll, K-pop star BamBam, and Angelique Kidjo all took part.
The concert also featured an international choir. Adam Blackstone directed the group.
The Choir of the Diocese of Rome also performed under the direction of Maestro Marco Frisina.
Drones light up the concert
The concert ended with a spectacular drone performance above St. Peter’s Square.
Around 3,000 drones filled the sky above the basilica.
With approval from the Holy See, Nova Sky Stories planned the large-scale drone display.
The technology created several famous images in the night sky.
One display recreated Michelangelo’s famous “The Creation of Adam”.
The artwork appears on the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel.
The drones also recreated the famous finger-touch scene from the painting.
Another display featured a drone version of Michelangelo’s Pietà.
The show also honoured the late Pope Francis with a portrait in the sky.
Finally, the drones formed the word “JOY” above the Vatican.
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