Vatican City, Jan 18, 2004 / 22:00 pm
At the end of a concert dedicated to reconciliation among Jews, Christians and Muslims held at the Paul VI Hall last Saturday evening, Pope John Paul II called on leaders of the monotheistic religions to have to courage to promote peace.
The concert, organized by the Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity and the Pontifical Council for Inter-religious Dialogue, was attended by representatives from various international Jewish organizations, Churches and ecclesial communities, and Islamic groups.
After referring to the two musical themes of the concert, “the Veneration of the Patriarch Abraham and the Resurrection of the Dead,” the Holy Father said: “The history of relations among Jews, Christians and Muslims is marked by lights and shadows, and, unfortunately, has known painful moments.”
“Today,” he continued, “the pressing need is felt for a sincere reconciliation among all believers in one God. This evening, we are gathered here to give a concrete expression to this commitment to reconciliation, entrusting ourselves to the universal message of music.”
“Our common desire is that all human beings be purified from the hatred and evil that continually threaten peace, and that they may know how to extend hands that have never known violence but which are ready to offer help and comfort to those in need.”
The Pope emphasized that the followers of the three world religions “must find within ourselves the courage for peace. We must implore the Almighty for the gift of peace. And this peace will spread like oil that soothes, if we unceasingly pursue the path of reconciliation.”