In a statement signed by David Botelho, the president of the Jewish Community of Lisbon (CIL), the organization expressed hopes that under the papacy of Pope Leo XVI, it will remain possible “to continue giving importance and centrality to inter-religious dialogue, following in the footsteps of Pope Francis” and following the ecclesiastical path of the new Pope “as a priest and later cardinal.”
Inter-religious dialogue is described as “an indispensable ingredient for reducing extremism and for the peaceful and constructive coming together of differences,” as well as “an active way of promoting peace.”
“We hope that this can be strengthened with Jewish communities worldwide,” the statement adds.
The CIL also extends its greetings to the Catholic Church and “all its faithful, especially those in Portugal.”
Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, 69, who was elected Pope today and chose the name Leo XIV, called for assistance in “building bridges through dialogue and encounter,” referring to “one people” in search of peace during his first public speech as the leader of the Catholic Church.
Born in Chicago, United States, the new Pope has Spanish ancestry and Peruvian nationality and is a member of the Order of Saint Augustine.
Leo XIV succeeds Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21 at the age of 88.
