I’m not sure if this is just a tradition in the Roman Catholic church over the last few years, but it seems to be a laudable idea to have the first day of the new year designated a World Day of Peace. Pope Benedict XVII makes quite a meal of it, though I agree with his final point:
At the conclusion of this Message, I would like to address a particular word to all believers in Christ, inviting them once again to be attentive and generous disciples of the Lord. When we hear the Gospel, dear brothers and sisters, we learn to build peace on the truth of a daily life inspired by the commandment of love.