Apostolic Nuncio Highlights Importance of Interfaith Dialogue
Archbishop Henryk Mieczysław Jagodziński, the Apostolic Nuncio to South Africa, has praised the Southern African Catholic Bishops Conference (SACBC) Department of Ecumenism, Interreligious Dialogue, and Dialogue with the Secular World for organizing a Christian-Muslim interfaith dialogue. Speaking to the SACBC Communication Office, Archbishop Jagodziński underscored the critical role of interfaith initiatives in promoting understanding and mutual respect among diverse religious communities.
“I am very grateful to the SACBC Department of Interreligious Dialogue for this invitation,” the Archbishop said. “It is an honor to have been asked to deliver the closing prayer.”
Drawing Inspiration from Pope Francis
During the event, Archbishop Jagodziński reflected on Pope Francis’s 2019 Abu Dhabi declaration on Human Fraternity for World Peace and Living Together. He emphasized that such interfaith engagements are vital for breaking down prejudices and fostering meaningful connections between different faiths.
Held under the theme “Unity of God and Unity in God” at St. John Vianney Major Seminary in Pretoria, the dialogue brought together leaders and representatives from Christian and Muslim communities. Among the participants were Bishop Jan de Groef of the Bethlehem Diocese, members of Catholic higher education institutions, the Church of Scientology, a representative from the Iranian Embassy, and participants from the Monastic Interreligious Dialogue (DIM-MID).
Acknowledging Key Contributors
Archbishop Jagodziński expressed gratitude to the event’s distinguished speakers, including Fr. William Skudlarek, a monk from Saint John’s Abbey in Minnesota and Secretary General of DIM-MID, and Sheikh Dr. Mohammad Ali Shomali, a renowned Iranian scholar and theologian. Both speakers stressed the significance of interreligious dialogue in building stronger, more united communities.
Addressing Challenges in Modern Faith
The Archbishop also lamented the repurposing of sacred spaces in many societies, particularly in Western countries, where churches are increasingly converted into commercial venues. “This is very painful and humiliating,” he remarked, urging Christians to examine whether their actions align with God’s will or are driven by personal desires.
“When we reflect on our faith and issues within the Church, we must ask ourselves: Is this truly the will of God or merely our own desires?” he added.
Hope for Continued Dialogue
Archbishop Jagodziński expressed optimism about the outcomes of the interfaith event, voicing his gratitude for the opportunity to participate so early in his mission to Southern Africa. He emphasized that fostering dialogue between communities is not just an initiative but a necessity for global peace and coexistence.
By championing such efforts, the SACBC continues to strengthen bonds between diverse religious communities, setting a meaningful example of unity and shared purpose.