The World Jewish Congress pays tribute to Pope Francis after his death, with president Ronald Lauder calling him “a true moral leader, a man of deep faith and humanity, and a steadfast friend to the Jewish people.”
“From his early years in Argentina to his papacy, Pope Francis was deeply committed to fostering interfaith dialogue and ensuring that the memory of the Holocaust remained a guiding lesson for future generations,” Lauder says. “Under his leadership, the relationship between the Holy See and the World Jewish Congress flourished.”
Lauder recalls several highlights in WJC’s relationship with Pope Francis, including its opening of an office near St. Peter’s Basilica in 2023 to promote Catholic-Jewish relations.
“While there were moments of difficulty, particularly in recent months, I remain deeply appreciative of his warmth, humility and unwavering dedication to meaningful engagement between faith communities,” Lauder says.
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