Pope Leo XIV has reaffirmed the Catholic Church’s condemnation of antisemitism and its commitment to combat this form of hatred amid escalating tensions stemming from the ongoing conflict in Gaza. During a general audience in Rome on March 15, 2024, the Pope marked the 60th anniversary of the landmark Vatican document, Nostra Aetate, which transformed the Church’s relationship with the Jewish community.
The Pope acknowledged the misunderstandings and tensions that have surfaced as a result of Israel’s military actions but emphasized that this does not deter the Church’s mission to promote friendship with the Jewish people. He reiterated the Vatican’s official stance, which abhors antisemitism in all its forms. “We cannot deny that there have been misunderstandings, difficulties, and conflicts in this period,” he stated, “but these have never prevented the dialogue from continuing.”
Addressing Historical Misconceptions
The Nostra Aetate declaration, which translates to “In Our Time,” was pivotal in rejecting the notion of collective Jewish guilt for the death of Jesus Christ—a belief that has historically fueled antisemitism. In his address, the Pope quoted the document, which condemns “hatred, persecutions, displays of antisemitism, directed against Jews at any time and by anyone.” He emphasized that all his predecessors have condemned antisemitism, reinforcing the Church’s unwavering stance against it.
This year’s anniversary comes as antisemitism is reportedly on the rise globally, particularly in the wake of the conflict in Gaza following the Hamas attacks on October 7, 2023. The Anti-Defamation League has recorded a surge in antisemitic incidents, marking a historic high in the United States, with 58% of the 9,354 incidents linked to Israel. These incidents include anti-Israel rhetoric at protests and rallies, further straining the Church’s relationship with the Jewish community.
Calls for Continued Dialogue
Pope Leo XIV has faced challenges in navigating the complex dynamics of the situation. His predecessor, Pope Francis, drew criticism from Jewish and Israeli leaders for comments perceived as equating the actions of Hamas with those of Israel. Despite this, Francis has called for the return of hostages taken by Hamas and has urged investigations into Israel’s military actions.
At his installation in May, Pope Leo XIV met with Jewish leaders and reaffirmed the importance of dialogue, even during challenging times. Rabbi Noam Marans, director of interreligious affairs at the American Jewish Committee, highlighted the significance of the Pope’s recognition of ongoing issues. He expressed hope for a strong Vatican position against antisemitism.
“Never in the relationship of Catholics and Jews since Nostra Aetate has the Jewish people been more in need of friends who commit themselves to combating antisemitism with every fiber of their being,” Marans stated. He emphasized the Church’s unique ability to influence public opinion and urged it to leverage its moral authority to address this pressing issue.
As tensions persist in the region, the Pope’s commitment to fostering dialogue and fighting antisemitism remains crucial for both the Catholic Church and the broader international community. The challenges posed by these conflicts highlight the need for continued efforts to build understanding and solidarity among different faiths.
