Pope Leo XIV Calls for Dialogue, Unity, and Peace in First Interfaith Address

Report by Safarti Tarjuman International Desk

Pope Leo XIV, in his first official address to representatives of non-Catholic Churches and world religions, urged global faith leaders to embrace dialogue, unity, and fraternity to help build a more peaceful world.

Speaking at a special audience one day after the Mass inaugurating his Petrine Ministry, Pope Leo XIV paid tribute to his predecessor, Pope Francis, and reaffirmed the Church’s unwavering commitment to ecumenism and interreligious dialogue.

Pope Leo XIV praised his predecessor, Pope Francis, as a spiritual leader who prioritized global fraternity and dialogue among faiths.

> “Pope Francis promoted both ecumenical progress and interreligious dialogue, always placing human connection at the heart of every encounter,” he said.
> The Pope described his predecessor as a beacon of unity who championed openness without compromising ecclesial principles.

Addressing Christian Churches and ecclesial communities, Pope Leo XIV emphasized the importance of the 1,700th anniversary of the Council of Nicea, stating that “true unity can only be unity in faith.” He reaffirmed his dedication to pursuing full, visible Christian communion and highlighted the close connection between ecumenism and synodality, promising to promote a synodal Church in line with Pope Francis’ vision.

In his address to representatives of non-Christian religions, Pope Leo XIV declared that “today is the time for dialogue and building bridges,” calling for a shared journey in the spirit of human fraternity. He drew attention to the Document on Human Fraternity, a milestone of Pope Francis’ interfaith outreach, and reiterated the Catholic Church’s desire to collaborate across faith lines for the common good.

The Pope also emphasized the shared spiritual roots of Christians and Jews, advocating for continued theological dialogue and deeper understanding, even amid tension and conflict. He lauded the strengthening relations between the Church and Muslims, rooted in “mutual respect and freedom of conscience,” calling it a strong foundation for peaceful coexistence.

Pope Leo XIV expressed gratitude to followers of Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and other religions for their commitment to peace and non-violence. He urged global faith leaders to unite in saying “no to war, to the arms race, and to injustice,” and “yes to peace, disarmament, and integral development.”