The Dicastery for Interreligious Dialogue and the World Council of Churches release a joint statement in which they reaffirm their commitment to dialogue as a means of fostering peace and understanding.
A long-standing collaboration
Since 1977, the Dicastery for Interreligious Dialogue and the World Council of Churches have worked together to promote interreligious dialogue within an ecumenical framework. Their collaboration has produced significant documents, including Interreligious Prayer (1994), Reflection on Interreligious Marriage (1997), Christian Witness in a Multi-Religious World: Recommendations for Conduct (2011), Education for Peace in a Multi-Religious World: A Christian Perspective (2019), and Serving a Wounded World in Interreligious Solidarity: A Christian Call to Reflection and Action During COVID-19 (2020).
Promoting peace and fraternity
In their discussions, both delegations reaffirmed their dedication to strengthening interreligious dialogue. They acknowledged religious diversity as an ever-present reality in the contemporary world and emphasized the importance of fostering understanding and cooperation among faith traditions.
“In a world fractured by conflict, dialogue remains essential,” the participants stated, underlining the need for religious communities to serve as instruments of peace. “When guided by authentic dialogue, religions can contribute to healing divisions, fostering fraternity, and cultivating reconciliation.”
The meeting concluded with a renewed commitment to advancing interreligious initiatives that promote mutual respect and understanding. Both the Dicastery for Interreligious Dialogue and the World Council of Churches expressed gratitude for the ongoing friendship between their institutions and looked forward to further collaboration in the years leading up to the 50th anniversary of their partnership.
