Feb. 8 – A standing ovation from Barack Obama and the First Lady for Andrea Bocelli, who performed in front of them, in Washington, on the occasion of the 61st National Prayer Breakfast. This is unprecedented recognition for an Italian artist taking part in the event, sponsored by the U.S. Senate, and the ‘”House of Representatives Prayer Groups”, the official group of prayer of the Chamber of Deputies. The National Prayer Breakfast is a moment of great significance for world politics, during which the most important politicians of the world commit to cooperate with other nations in the common goal of prayer. The event lasts three days, as every year, and, in this 61st edition, it kicked off yesterday with a performance by Bocelli with “Ombra mai fu”. The presence of the tenor was required especially for his active role as a public figure in favor of solidarity, a man of peace and faith who, through his own art and social commitment (expressed via the Andrea Bocelli Foundation), promotes everywhere the values of a Christian brotherhood. Bocelli ended the concert with Ave Maria: “In this country, where I receive huge affection, I also received – said Bocelli- another great lesson: I want to return to Italy and transmit it: the will to pray together.” Over 4000 guests from all over the world via 200 delegations met to discuss topical issues, improving international cooperation on projects of solidarity, development and human development. Bocelli sat at the table with President Obama, Vice President Joe Biden, members of government, parliament, and the leaders of the spiritual world next to the most famous businessmen in America and Europe and rest of world.
