Pope Benedict XVI in Cologne: part 6

NB: this is the last part!

6. Dialogue with believers of other religious faiths

“Concrete gestures are required to penetrate souls and move consciences, encouraging everyone to that interior conversion which is the basis for all progress on the road of ecumenism.”[1]

Though Pope Benedict made this reference to the importance of “concrete gestures” when talking about ecumenism, that is, the work for unity among Christians of different denominations, his meetings with Jewish and Muslim representatives have this significance. They are concrete gestures that encourage everyone involved to interior conversion towards what is true and good and away from what is evil. Both meetings were overshadowed by world events of particular horror.

6.1 Visit to the synagogue in Cologne

Pope Benedict’s visit to the synagogue in Cologne was made in the shadow of the murderous attempt by the Nazi regime to eliminate the Jewish population of Germany and of Europe. Recalling the words of Pope John Paul II, Pope Benedict said:

“…I too say: ‘I bow my head before all those who experienced this manifestation of the mysterium iniquitatis’.”[2]

This reference to the history of Jewish suffering in Germany was a concrete gesture encouraging conversion. The realism that we saw in Pope Benedict’s remarks to representatives of other Christian communities can also be seen in his recognition of the common ground that is shared by Jewish and Christian faith:

“Both Jews and Christians recognize in Abraham their father in faith (cf. Galatians 3:7, Romans 4:11ff.) and they look to the teachings of Moses and the prophets. Jewish spirituality, like its Christian counterpart, draws nourishment from the psalms. With Saint Paul, Christians are convinced that ‘the gifts and the call of God are irrevocable’ (Romans 11:29, cf. 9:6,11; 11:1ff.). In considering the Jewish roots of Christianity (cf. Romans 11:16-24), my venerable Predecessor, quoting a statement by the German Bishops, affirmed that: ‘whoever meets Jesus Christ meets Judaism’ (Insegnamenti, vol. III/2, 1980, p. 1272).”[3]

Pope Benedict continued to urge a sincere and trustful dialogue between Jews and Christians:

“This dialogue, if it is to be sincere, must not gloss over or underestimate the existing differences: in those areas in which, due to our profound convictions in faith, we diverge, and indeed precisely in those areas, we need to show respect for one another.

“….. Our rich common heritage and our fraternal and more trusting relations call upon us to join in giving an ever more harmonious witness and to work together on the practical level for the defence and promotion of human rights and the sacredness of human life, for family values, for social justice and for peace in the world. The Decalogue (cf. Exodus 20; Deuteronomy 5) is for us a shared legacy and commitment. The Ten Commandments are not a burden, but a sign-post showing the path leading to a successful life. This is particularly the case for the young people whom I am meeting in these days and who are so dear to me. My wish is that they may be able to recognize in the Decalogue a lamp for their steps, a light for their path (cf. Psalm 119:105).”[4]

6.2 Christian - Muslim relations

The meeting with representatives of the Muslim faith was overshadowed by the phenomenon of world terrorism.

“I am certain that I echo your own thoughts when I bring up as one of our concerns the spread of terrorism…..

“Terrorism of any kind is a perverse and cruel decision which shows contempt for the sacred right to life and undermines the very foundations of all civil society. If together we can succeed in eliminating from hearts any trace of rancour, in resisting every form of intolerance and in opposing every manifestation of violence, we will turn back the wave of cruel fanaticism that endangers the lives of so many people and hinders progress towards world peace.”[5]

Pope Benedict also included an interesting reference to the need to respect minorities:

“We must seek paths of reconciliation and learn to live with respect for each other's identity. The defence of religious freedom, in this sense, is a permanent imperative and respect for minorities is a clear sign of true civilization.”[6]

In Europe and North America, this might refer to the position of Muslim minorities in essentially secular states. In some Arab countries, the imperative might be reversed, and apply to Christian believers in states governed by Islamic law.

As in his meetings with other Christians and the Jewish community, Pope Benedict also spoke of the common area of belief between the Muslim faith and the Christian faith:

“In this regard, it is always right to recall what the Fathers of the Second Vatican Council said about relations with Muslims. ‘The Church looks upon Muslims with respect. They worship the one God living and subsistent, merciful and almighty, creator of heaven and earth, who has spoken to humanity and to whose decrees, even the hidden ones, they seek to submit themselves wholeheartedly, just as Abraham, to whom the Islamic faith readily relates itself, submitted to God. ... ‘”[7]

Towards the end of his address, Pope Benedict referred to the need for dialogue:

“Interreligious and intercultural dialogue between Christians and Muslims cannot be reduced to an optional extra. It is in fact a vital necessity, on which in large measure our future depends. “[8]

And, in a practice of dialogue, Pope Benedict ended his address with a prayer of blessing that has echoes of Islamic belief:

“I pray with all my heart, dear Muslim friends, that the merciful and compassionate God may protect you, bless you and enlighten you always. May the God of peace lift up our hearts, nourish our hope and guide our steps on the paths of the world.”[9]

[1] Pope Benedict XVI Message at the end of the Eucharistic Concelebration with the members of the College of Cardinals Wednesday, 20 April 2005
[2] Pope Benedict XVI Address at the Synagogue in Cologne 19th August 2005, quoting Pope John Paul II.
[3] Pope Benedict XVI Address at the Synagogue in Cologne 19th August 2005.
[4] Pope Benedict XVI Address at the Synagogue in Cologne 19th August 2005.
[5] Pope Benedicth XVI Address during meeting with representatives of Muslim communities, Cologne 20th August 2005.
[6] Pope Benedicth XVI Address during meeting with representatives of Muslim communities, Cologne 20th August 2005.
[7] Pope Benedicth XVI Address during meeting with representatives of Muslim communities, Cologne 20th August 2005.
[8] Pope Benedicth XVI Address during meeting with representatives of Muslim communities, Cologne 20th August 2005.
[9] Pope Benedicth XVI Address during meeting with representatives of Muslim communities, Cologne 20th August 2005.