Pope Francis
“We believe that the Congress will contribute to the development of global interreligious dialogue in the name of peace and stability. And through this commitment to a collective resolution of international disputes, the Congress will contribute to the development of mutual understanding between Eastern and Western civilizations.”
Excerpts from article by correspondent at Vatican News forwarded by Treasure Earth
Pope Francis travels to Kazakhstan on Tuesday for the 7th Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions being held in the Kazakh capital of Nur-Sultan on 14-15 September. The event will feature discussions to promote peace and concrete commitments on the part of religious leaders from around the globe.
While numerous religions will be represented, other participants will include the Grand Imam of Al Azhar, Ahmed Al Tayyeb; Metropolitan Antonij of Volokolamsk, head of the Department for External Relations of the Patriarchate of Moscow; Ashkenazi Chief Rabbi of Israel David Lau; and Sephardic Chief Rabbi of Israel Yitzhak Yosef; and Patriarch Theophilos III of Jerusalem.
The Congress’ history
The history of the Congress dates back to 2003, when the then-President of Kazakhstan, Nur-Sultan Nazarbayev, hosted the first one “in a direct response to the rise of religious tensions following the tragic event of 9/11 in the United States.”
Six Congresses of religious leaders of world and traditional religions have been held, and Kazakhstan looks forward to hosting the 7th Congress.
“It will be one of the largest Congresses compared to the previous ones,” a senior spokesperson from the Kazakhstan government stated.
Welcoming Pope Francis
Not only is this year’s Congress expected to welcome some 100 participants from 50 countries, but it will also mark the greatest number in the number of participants, as well as the quality of its distinguished delegations.
“Of course, this includes Pope Francis, whom we are very much looking forward to host.”
Religion’s role in addressing acute questions
The Congress wishes to send a unique message of peace to a world where religious fundamentalism is on the rise.
“We believe that during this very, very difficult time, religion should be a cornerstone for the society and can help us. It can help us guide through difficult times.”
Commitment to a collective resolution
Kazakhstan, is hoping to promote a peaceful and decent life for people all over the planet.
Pope Francis
“We believe that the Congress will contribute to the development of global interreligious dialogue in the name of peace and stability. And through this commitment to a collective resolution of international disputes, the Congress will contribute to the development of mutual understanding between Eastern and Western civilizations.”
The Congress is expected to produce a final document, signed by participants.
“We are planning to adopt the declaration of the Congress, and we hope that all the important messages the leaders would like to send to the people of the world will be included.”
Interreligious dialogue has always been very close to Pope Francis’ heart, as evidenced by his Document on Human Fraternity, signed in Abu Dhabi, and his subsequent encyclical on the topic in Fratelli tutti.
The Pope has also participated in the Community of Sant’Egidio’s Prayer for Peace encounters, in Assisi and Rome, in hopes of keeping alive the ‘Spirit of Assisi’ among interfaith leaders.
