KFF Trip to Italy: Strengthening Cultural and Community Ties
We are honored to continue expanding KFF’s international presence and building bridges between Lithuania and Lithuanian communities abroad. KFF Board Member Michael Kazickas, his wife Beverly, and KFF staff from Lithuania and the US participated in this meaningful business visit to Italy, Turin and Rome. The trip aligned with two important events – the launch of the Lithuanian Cultural Season in Italy and the annual Italian-Lithuanian community gathering in Turin.
The Italian-Lithuanian community brought members together for a three-day gathering in Turin:
- During the opening evening, welcome remarks were delivered by Ambassador of Lithuania to Italy Dalia Kreivienė, the Lithuanian Honorary Consul in Italy, Piemonte regional and City of Turin representatives, leaders of Italian-Lithuanian communities, as well as Michael Kazickas and KFF Executive Director Neila.
- The program included cultural workshops and discussions, Mass, Lithuanian folk dances, a presentation of M. K. Čiurlionis children’s books, informal conversations, and diaspora networking.
Rome – Diplomatic, community and cultural meetings:
- Meeting with the Ambassador of Lithuania to Italy, Dalia Kreivienė, and her team at the Lithuanian Embassy in Rome.
- Participation in Mass celebrated by Msgr. Rolandas Makrickas, with a tour and conversation afterward at Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica.
- Mass celebrated by Fr. Audrius Arstikaitis at St. Peter’s Basilica, Vatican (Chapel of the Patrons of Europe), followed by a visit to the Lithuanian Chapel.
- Meeting with Ambassador to the Holy See Sigita Maslauskaitė at the Embassy.
- Visit to St. Paul Outside the Walls Basilica with an organ performance and guided tour by Christian Alexandro Almada and Renata Marcinkute-Lesieur.
- Informal discussion with the Board Members of Lithuanian Communities in Rome and Italy.
- Promote Bring Together Lithuania for Italian-Lithuanian youth.
- A guided tour of Lithuanian-related heritage sites in Rome.
We were grateful to connect with Lithuanian community leaders, diplomats, clergy, and culture promoters who play a vital role in strengthening Lithuania–Italy ties.
