Welcome to the Vatican Apostolic Palace, where Pope Leo XIV recently met with representatives from various Churches, ecclesial communities, and religions. This historic gathering in Rome marked the inauguration of the Pope’s Petrine ministry, emphasizing the importance of Christian unity and interreligious dialogue.
Surrounded by a spirit of fraternity and respect, the Holy Father reaffirmed his commitment to building bridges and strengthening synodality within the Church. He expressed his gratitude to religious leaders such as His Holiness Bartholomew, His Beatitude Theophilus III, and His Holiness Mar Awa III for their presence and prayers during this significant event.
Pope Leo XIV highlighted the legacy of Pope Francis in promoting universal brotherhood and interfaith dialogue, noting that his election as Bishop of Rome coincides with the 1,700th anniversary of the First Ecumenical Council of Nicaea. This milestone event played a crucial role in fostering doctrinal unity among Christians.
“The pursuit of full and visible communion among all who profess faith in God is a priority duty for me as Bishop of Rome,” affirmed Pope Leo XIV, emphasizing the need for collaboration guided by the Holy Spirit to achieve unity.
The Pontiff underscored the connection between synodality and ecumenism, pledging to continue Pope Francis’ efforts in promoting a synodal spirit in the Catholic Church and fostering new forms of ecumenical collaboration.
The meeting also included expressions of gratitude to representatives from other religious traditions, recognizing the value of their contributions to peace and the common good. Pope Leo XIV emphasized the importance of interreligious dialogue based on mutual respect and freedom of conscience.
Special greetings were extended to Jewish and Muslim representatives, highlighting their shared roots and commitment to peace and fraternity. The Pope concluded the meeting with a call for unity and concrete actions to promote a more just and peaceful world.
This significant event marks the beginning of Pope Leo XIV’s Petrine ministry, signaling a renewed focus on unity, dialogue, and openness to all religious traditions. The Church’s dedication to peace and global reconciliation is reaffirmed through this gathering.
Full Address of the Holy Father
Dear brothers and sisters,
With great joy, I extend my warm greetings to all the Representatives of Churches, Ecclesial Communities, and religions who joined me in celebrating the inauguration of my ministry as Bishop of Rome and Successor of Peter. I express my affection to religious leaders such as His All Holiness Bartholomew, His Beatitude Theophilos III, and His Holiness Mar Awa III. I am deeply grateful for your presence and prayers, which bring me great comfort and encouragement.
Pope Francis’ pontificate was marked by a strong emphasis on universal fraternity, promoting ecumenism and interreligious dialogue. His personal touch in fostering relationships has been instrumental in advancing these initiatives. May we continue to be inspired by his example!
My election coincides with the 1700th anniversary of the First Ecumenical Council of Nicaea, a pivotal moment in formulating the Creed shared by all Christians. As Bishop of Rome, I am committed to seeking full and visible communion among all who profess faith in the Holy Trinity.
Unity has always been a central concern for me, reflected in the motto I have chosen for my episcopal ministry: In Illo uno unum, inspired by Saint Augustine of Hippo. Our communion is realized through our unity in Christ, and I believe that through prayer and collaboration, guided by the Holy Spirit, we can work towards this goal.
Synodality and ecumenism go hand in hand, and I am dedicated to fostering a synodal spirit within the Catholic Church, as Pope Francis did. Our shared journey towards unity involves everyone, emphasizing human fraternity and the importance of dialogue and bridge-building.
I extend a warm greeting to representatives of other religious traditions, recognizing our shared pursuit of God’s will, which is rooted in love and life for all. I commend Pope Francis’ efforts in promoting interreligious dialogue and building relationships based on mutual understanding and respect.
In a special way, I acknowledge our Jewish and Muslim brothers and sisters, highlighting our common roots and commitment to peace. Let us continue to work together to foster unity and fraternity, creating a more just and peaceful world.
This gathering marks the beginning of a new chapter in my Petrine ministry, emphasizing unity, dialogue, and openness to all religious traditions. Together, let us strive for peace and reconciliation, guided by the spirit of fraternity and mutual respect.
The Importance of Dialogue and Fraternity Among Different Religious Traditions
The Nostra Aetate declaration (no. 4) highlights the significance of the spiritual bond shared by Christians and Jews, promoting mutual understanding and respect. The ongoing theological dialogue between Christians and Jews holds a special place in my heart, especially in today’s turbulent times filled with conflicts and misunderstandings.
The relationship between the Catholic Church and Muslims has been characterized by a growing commitment to dialogue and brotherhood, grounded in mutual respect and freedom of conscience. This approach serves as a strong foundation for bridging the gap between our communities, guided by a shared belief in the one, merciful, and almighty God who speaks to humanity.
I extend my gratitude to all representatives of different religious traditions for their presence and contribution to peace. Each community brings wisdom, compassion, and a dedication to the well-being of humanity and the Earth. By setting aside ideological and political influences, we can collectively reject violence, promote peace, disarmament, and sustainable development.
Our demonstration of unity and fraternity through tangible actions will undoubtedly play a role in fostering a more peaceful world, a vision cherished by all individuals of goodwill.
Dear friends, I am grateful for your support and solidarity. Let us seek God’s blessings to guide us in embodying His infinite goodness and wisdom, enabling us to live as His children and as siblings to one another, nurturing hope in the world. My heartfelt appreciation to you all.
[Original text: Italian]
