An Audience with His Holiness Pope Leo XIV

On Tuesday, October 28, 2025, in observance of the anniversary of the issuance of Nostra Aetate, His Holiness Pope Leo XIV hosted a formal reception acknowledging representatives from diverse faith communities, diplomatic officials accredited to the Holy See, Vatican and Catholic Church officials, and individuals committed to fostering interfaith dialogue. The event was held at the Paul VI Hall within the Vatican.

Music, dance performances, personal testimonials, and expressions of camaraderie fostered a welcoming and festive atmosphere in anticipation of Pope Leo’s visit.

Cardinal Kurt Koch, Prefect of the Dicastery for Promoting Christian Unity, reaffirmed the core principles articulated in Nostra Aetate, highlighting its significance as a foundational document for encouraging mutual respect and understanding between Jewish and Christian communities.

Additionally, Buddhist monk and founder of the Museum of World Religions, Hsin Tao, provided an insightful reflection: “When the heart is at peace, the world will be at peace.”

Building upon the principle of fostering peace through meaningful dialogue, Pope Leo emphasized that “dialogue is not merely a strategic approach or an auxiliary tool; rather, it is a fundamental way of living— a heartfelt journey that has the power to positively transform all participants, whether they are engaged in listening or speaking.

Furthermore, this journey is undertaken without relinquishing one’s own faith, but rather by remaining grounded in it.

Genuine dialogue, therefore, is rooted in conviction— in the deep-seated beliefs that empower us to engage with others compassionately and constructively.”