(-VIDEO ONLY-) This week's general audience marks the 50th anniversary of 'Nostra Aetate' Declaration, which defines the relationship between the Catholic Church and non-Christian religions.
In his catechesis, the Pope encouraged all believers to embrace diversity and to work together 'in confronting the many problems affecting our human family.'
READ THE POPE'S CATECHESIS:
Dear Brothers and Sisters,
Todayâ??s Audience marks the fiftieth anniversary of the Second Vatican Councilâ??s Declaration Nostra Aetate on the Churchâ??s Relation to Non-Christian Religions. I welcome the followers of the different religions who have joined us, especially those who have come from great distances. The Councilâ??s Declaration was an expression of the Churchâ??s esteem for the followers of other religious traditions, and her openness to dialogue in the service of understanding and friendship.
The past fifty years have seen much progress in this regard. In a special way, we give thanks to God for the significant advances made in relations between Christians and Jews, and in those between Christians and Muslims. The world rightly expects believers to work together with all people of good will in confronting the many problems affecting our human family.
It is my hope that the forthcoming Jubilee of Mercy will be an occasion for ever greater interreligious cooperation in works of charity, reconciliation and care for Godâ??s gift of creation. As we look to the future of interreligous dialogue, let us pray that, in accordance with family, peacefully united in and through our diversities
Speaker: I greet the English-speaking pilgrims and visitors taking part in todayâ??s Audience, including those from England, Wales, Ireland, Sweden, Denmark, Finland, Nigeria, Israel, Australia, Indonesia, Japan and the United States of America. In a particular way I greet the ecumenical delegation from Korea, and I renew my thanks to the representatives of the different religions who have joined us today. God bless you all.
