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 Israel’s actions against Hamas in Gaza, Jewish leaders emphasized the pivotal role Pope Leo’s 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 Pope’s solidarity with Jewish communities.
Rabbi Marans, who attended Sunday’s Mass at St. Peter’s Square donning a kippah, appreciated the pope’s recent letter underscoring the need for enhanced cooperation. On Monday, Rabbi Marans partook in a meeting where Leo reiterated his commitment to furthering the Vatican’s 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 Leo’s 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 Council’s 1965 proclamation, “Nostra Aetate,” which reshaped the relationship between Catholics and Jews by highlighting shared heritage and denouncing anti-Semitism. However, recent remarks by Pope Francis regarding Israel’s military responses led to frustrations among Jewish leaders. Francis’ expressions of sympathy for Palestinians, without mentioning Israel, especially using terms like “genocide” concerning Israeli actions, sparked controversy and dissatisfaction.
Jewish communities, marked by a history of discrimination notably during the Holocaust, valued Pope Leo’s 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 Leo’s dedication to enhanced interfaith discussions. During Monday’s 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 Leo’s 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 Leo’s approach signifies a departure from previous political tones, aiming to establish understanding behind closed doors.
A key issue remains the Vatican’s 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 Israel’s security as integral to their identity. Rabbi David Rosen from Jerusalem reflected on Pope Francis’s sometimes inconsiderate stance, contrasting it with the perceived sensitivity in Leo’s 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 Leo’s outreach initiatives. Highlighting a shared commitment beyond geopolitical concerns, Sideman emphasized the necessity of synchronizing dialogues between Jewish communities and the nation of Israel.