Vatican City (AsiaNews) – Jews, Christians and Muslims are called to cooperate with one another for the common good of humanity and serve the cause of justice and peace in the world. This is especially important today when particular attention must be given to teaching respect for God, religions and their symbols. Benedict XVI made this appeal for cooperation between religions today during a meeting with members of the American Jewish Committee.

The Holy Father said that the recent celebration of the 40th anniversary of the Declaration of the Second Vatican Council Nostra Aetate "increased our shared desire to know each other better and to develop a dialogue characterised by mutual respect and love."

He emphasised the "rich common patrimony" Jews and Christians have, which "distinguishes our relationship as unique among the religions of the world", and reiterated the fact that the "Church can never forget that chosen people with whom God entered into a holy covenant."

"Judaism, Christianity and Islam," he added, "believe in the one God, Creator of heaven and earth. It follows, therefore, that all three monotheistic religions are called to cooperate with one another for the common good of humanity, serving the cause of justice and peace in the world. This is especially important today when particular attention must be given to teaching respect for God, for religions and their symbols, and for holy sites and places of worship. Religious leaders have a responsibility to work for reconciliation through genuine dialogue and acts of human solidarity."

Finally, Benedict XVI concluded the meeting saying: "I pray that your visit today may confirm you in your endeavours to build bridges of understanding across all barriers."