Pope Emphasizes Church’s Opposition to Anti-Semitism in General Audience Address

Pope Leo XIV reaffirmed the Church’s stance against anti-Semitism during his Wednesday General Audience, emphasizing that “the Church does not tolerate anti-Semitism and fights against it, on the basis of the Gospel itself.” Speaking to leaders and representatives of non-Christian faiths, he highlighted the importance of Jewish-Catholic relations and the role of interreligious dialogue in fostering peace and understanding.

Since the publication of the Second Vatican Council’s “Declaration on the Relation of the Church to non-Christian Religions,” Nostra aetate, sixty years ago, “all my predecessors have condemned anti-Semitism with clear words,” the Pope stated. He reiterated that the Church’s commitment to combating anti-Semitism is rooted in its teachings and the example of Jesus Christ, who showed compassion and respect for all people.

The Pope’s catechesis focused on the significance of interreligious dialogue as a means to build a better world. He acknowledged that misunderstandings and conflicts have occurred over the past six decades but stressed that these have not hindered the continuation of dialogue. “Even today, we must not allow political circumstances and the injustices of some to divert us from friendship,” he said, noting the progress made in Jewish-Catholic relations.

Expressing gratitude to the leaders and representatives of various faiths present, Pope Leo emphasized the achievements of Jewish-Catholic dialogue since 1965. He credited both human effort and divine assistance, stating that “our God, according to Christian conviction, is dialogue itself.” The Pope underscored that Nostra aetate’s initial focus was on the Jewish world, marking a historic shift in the Church’s approach to Jewish roots and heritage.

He explained that the document recognized the Catholic Church’s Jewish roots, stating that “the beginnings of her faith and her election are found already among the Patriarchs, Moses and the prophets.” The Pope highlighted that Nostra aetate condemned all forms of anti-Semitism, affirming the Church’s commitment to justice and the dignity of all people.

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