Pope tells American Jewish Committee: dialogue must reflect 'our relationship with God'
February 13, 2014
Pope Francis met on February 13 with a delegation from the American Jewish Committee, thanking them for “the distinguished contribution you have made to dialogue and fraternity between Jews and Catholics.”
The Pope observed that 2015 will bring the 50th anniversary of Nostra Aetate, the Vatican II document that provided a “sure point of reference for relations with our ‘elder brothers’” and allowed for dialogue between Catholics and Jews to advance “with renewed vigor.”
The reason for this interfaith dialogue, the Pope continued, is merely a display of mutual respect. It is based on a theological foundation, he said, and “it is important that our dialogue be always profoundly marked by the awareness of our relationship with God.”
The Pope added that Christians and Jews can also “cooperate in constructing a more just and fraternal world.” Moreover, he said that both should commit themselves “to transmitting to new generations the heritage of our mutual knowledge, esteem, and friendship.”
In closing the Pope reminded the Jewish delegation that he will soon be visiting Jerusalem. He asked for their prayers “that this pilgrimage may bring forth the fruits of communion, hope, and peace.”
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