Jewish leaders held a meeting with Pope Leo XIV on Monday, focusing on fostering interreligious dialogue. This conversation followed their participation in the inauguration Mass as esteemed guests, amid optimism for improved Catholic-Jewish relations under this first U.S.-born pope, in contrast to the challenging ties with his predecessor.
Amid rising antisemitism and worldwide criticisms of Israelโs actions against Hamas in Gaza, Jewish leaders emphasized the pivotal role Pope Leoโs moral guidance can play for the global Catholic population of 1.4 billion. Rabbi Noam Marans of the American Jewish Committee stressed the potential life-saving influence of the Popeโs solidarity with Jewish communities.
Rabbi Marans, who attended Sundayโs Mass at St. Peterโs Square donning a kippah, appreciated the popeโs recent letter underscoring the need for enhanced cooperation. On Monday, Rabbi Marans partook in a meeting where Leo reiterated his commitment to furthering the Vaticanโs engagement and fraternity with various faiths. Presenting the pope with a White Sox cap, Marans remarked on the revitalization of Catholic-Jewish ties. He noted Leoโs proactive style as a beneficial influence to overcome past discord concerning Israel, focusing instead on strengthening relationships against the backdrop of conservative opposition.
Historical ties date back to the Second Vatican Councilโs 1965 proclamation, โNostra Aetate,โ which reshaped the relationship between Catholics and Jews by highlighting shared heritage and denouncing anti-Semitism. However, recent remarks by Pope Francis regarding Israelโs military responses led to frustrations among Jewish leaders. Francisโ expressions of sympathy for Palestinians, without mentioning Israel, especially using terms like โgenocideโ concerning Israeli actions, sparked controversy and dissatisfaction.
Jewish communities, marked by a history of discrimination notably during the Holocaust, valued Pope Leoโs overtures, which include dialogues emphasizing mutual respect. In the United States, Jewish-Catholic interactions are robust, illustrated by initiatives like a joint 2022 publication combatting anti-Semitism. Jewish leaders in the U.S. and Israel commend Leoโs dedication to enhanced interfaith discussions. During Mondayโs interfaith meeting, Pope Leo acknowledged the special relationship with Judaism due to shared spiritual heritage and reiterated the importance of ongoing theological dialogue despite challenging times.
The Jewish community acknowledged Pope Leoโs call for a ceasefire and his recognition of hostages in his recent Sunday blessing, though he omitted direct references in his inaugural speech calling for peace in areas like Gaza, Myanmar, and Ukraine. Jewish leaders are optimistic about developing frank, open dialogues with the Vatican as Pope Leoโs approach signifies a departure from previous political tones, aiming to establish understanding behind closed doors.
A key issue remains the Vaticanโs interaction with Israel, especially amidst continuing conflicts. Diplomatic relations between Israel and the Vatican began only in 1993. Globally, Jews, regardless of their political stance, often view Israelโs security as integral to their identity. Rabbi David Rosen from Jerusalem reflected on Pope Francisโs sometimes inconsiderate stance, contrasting it with the perceived sensitivity in Leoโs current practices.
Israeli Ambassador to the Holy See, Yaron Sideman, acknowledged complexities in past relations with Pope Francis but expressed a vote of confidence in Pope Leoโs outreach initiatives. Highlighting a shared commitment beyond geopolitical concerns, Sideman emphasized the necessity of synchronizing dialogues between Jewish communities and the nation of Israel.