Pope: Jews and Catholics can work together for a “more just and fraternal world"
Vatican City ( AsiaNews) - The foundation of
dialogue between Christians and Jews is theological " and not simply an expression of our desire for reciprocal respect and
esteem" and common service for the poor and the
helpless. This
is why they can work together for a "more just and fraternal world"
and it is important that both Catholic and Jewish formation centers pursue
mutual understanding.
These
were the words today of Pope Francis as he received a delegation of the American
Jewish Committee, one of the largest and oldest American Jewish organizations,
of which he emphasized the "qualified contribution to dialogue and
brotherhood between Jews and Christians " , carried out in years .
"Next
year - he added, - we
will commemorate the fiftieth anniversary of the Declaration of the Second
Vatican Council Nostra Aetate, which today constitutes for the Church the sure
point of reference for relations with our "elder brothers". From this document,
our reflection on the spiritual patrimony which unites us and which is the
foundation of our dialogue has developed with renewed vigour. This foundation
is theological, and not simply an expression of our desire for reciprocal
respect and esteem. Therefore, it is important that our dialogue be always
profoundly marked by the awareness of our relationship with God.
In addition to dialogue, it is also important to find ways in which Jews and
Christians can cooperate in constructing a more just and fraternal world. In
this regard, I call to mind in a particular way our common efforts to serve the
poor, the marginalized and those who suffer. Our commitment to this service is
anchored in the protection of the poor, widows, orphans, and foreigners as
shown in Sacred Scripture (cf. Ex 20:20-22). It is a God given duty, one which
reflects his holy will and his justice; it is a true religious obligation".
"Finally, in order that our efforts may not be
fruitless, it is important that we dedicate ourselves to transmitting to new
generations the heritage of our mutual knowledge, esteem and friendship which
has, thanks to the commitment of associations like yours, grown over these
years. It is my hope therefore that the study of relations with Judaism may
continue to flourish in seminaries and in centres of formation for lay
Catholics, as I am similarly hopeful that a desire for an understanding of
Christianity may grow among young Rabbis and the Jewish community".
"Dear
friends - said the Pope - , in a few months I will have the joy of visiting Jerusalem, where - as
the Psalm says - we are all born (cf. Ps 87:5) and where all peoples will one
day meet (cf. Is 25:6-10). Accompany me with your prayers, so that this
pilgrimage may bring forth the fruits of communion, hope and peace. Shalom!".
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