Pope Leo calls for deepening Jewish-Christian dialogue

Pope Leo XIV speaking at a solemn event dedicated to the 60th anniversary of the 1965 Vatican declaration "Nostra Aetate". Photo: AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia

On October 28, 2025, the Vatican celebrated the 60th anniversary of the Second Vatican Council's declaration "Nostra Aetate", which laid the foundations for dialogue between the Catholic Church and other religions, reports Vatican News.

At the anniversary events, Pope Leo XIV emphasized the importance of strengthening Judeo-Christian relations amid rising anti-Semitism and global conflicts.

Signed on October 28, 1965, by Pope Paul VI, the Second Vatican Council's declaration "Nostra Aetate" became a historic document that laid the foundation for a culture of respect and dialogue between religions. Over the past 60 years, it has defined the direction of interfaith relations of the Catholic Church.

"Even in these difficult times, marked by conflicts and misunderstandings, it is necessary to continue the momentum of this precious dialogue of ours," stated the pontiff, opening the celebrations. According to him, interreligious communication is not a temporary measure, but "a way of life – a journey of the heart that transforms everyone involved".

Speaking about the significance of the document, Pope Leo XIV emphasized its enduring relevance, saying it "takes a firm stand against all forms of antisemitism" and remained “highly relevant today".

The Pope linked the anniversary of Nostra Aetate with contemporary challenges, emphasizing that the Church must remain a voice of peace. 

The event was attended by leaders of various religious communities. "Never in the relationship of Catholics and Jews since ‘Nostra Aetate’ has the Jewish people been more in need of friends who commit themselves to combating antisemitism with every fiber of their being," noted Rabbi Noam Marans, expressing hope that the Vatican will continue to actively oppose any manifestations of hatred.

Concluding the meeting, the pontiff called for practical steps of mutual understanding: "Our words must become deeds – in education, in joint initiatives, and in supporting those who suffer. This is how trust and peace are built."

Earlier, the UOJ reported that the Vatican published the program of Pope Leo's first trip to Turkey.

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