Pope Leo XIV Advocates for Enhanced Catholic-Jewish Relations

Rome: Pope Leo XIV has expressed a commitment to deepening the relationship between the Catholic Church and the Jewish community, following his recent election at the conclave. This message was directed to Riccardo Di Segni, the Chief Rabbi of Rome, as stated by the Jewish community of the Italian capital on Tuesday.

According to Ansa News Agency, in a message announcing his election to Di Segni, Pope Leo XIV promised to “continue and strengthen the dialogue and cooperation of the Church with the Jewish people in the spirit of the Nostra aetate declaration of the Second Vatican Council.” This intention reflects a dedication to fostering interfaith communication and collaboration.

The Jewish community’s statement also mentioned that Rabbi Di Segni is scheduled to attend Pope Leo XIV’s inauguration at St Peter’s Square on Sunday. The rabbi reportedly “welcomed with satisfaction and gratitude the words addressed to him by the new pope,” indicating a positive reception to the pope’s outreach efforts.