Pax Christi International’s Peace Award 2025 was conferred upon Bishop Mark Seitz of the Catholic Diocese of El Paso in recognition of his longstanding commitment to protecting migrants along the United States–Mexico border.

Special recognition was also awarded to three organisations working in the same region to defend and support the rights of migrants: Annunciation House, the Hope Border Institute and the Las Américas Immigrant Advocacy Center. Through assistance, advocacy and accompaniment, these organisations work to protect the rights and dignity of people crossing one of the most challenging border regions in the world.

The award ceremony took place in Florence during Pax Christi International’s 2025 World Gathering, held from 5 to 9 November as part of the movement’s 80th anniversary celebrations.

 

As Bishop Seitz was unable to attend the ceremony in person, the award was accepted on his behalf by Bishop Anthony Celino, Auxiliary Bishop of the Diocese of El Paso. Through a video message shown at the beginning of the ceremony, Bishop Seitz thanked Pax Christi International and reaffirmed his human and Christian commitment to stand alongside people in need and continue advocating for the rights of migrants.

The special recognitions were presented to Ruben Garcia, Founder and Executive Director of Annunciation House; Marisa Limon Garza, Executive Director of the Las Américas Immigrant Advocacy Center; and Dylan Corbett, Executive Director of the Hope Border Institute.

Pax Christi International honoured their steadfast commitment and the networks of solidarity they have built, which have helped many migrants and displaced people through processes of protection, accompaniment and inclusion.

Read the official announcement of the 2025 Peace Award here, and discover more about the ceremony, including the video message and photographs, here.