Pope Francis Meets Jain Delegation, Urges Joint Efforts for Peace and Solidarity

Vatican City, November 26, 2024: Pope Francis met with an International Delegation of Jains on November 25, at the Vatican, emphasizing the importance of solidarity and peace in their joint efforts for a better world. The meeting, organized by the Institute of Jainology in London, focused on diversity and inclusion as part of a longstanding dialogue between Jains and Christians. The Pope also urged prayers for Cardinal Miguel Ángel Ayuso Guixot, Prefect of the Dicastery for Interreligious Dialogue, who is critically ill.

The dialogue, facilitated by the Vatican's Dicastery for Interreligious Dialogue, reflects decades of growing cooperation between the two communities. During the audience, Pope Francis highlighted the urgent need to address issues such as care for the poor and environmental stewardship, stressing that these shared responsibilities are vital in today’s world. He pointed to the harmful effects of individualism and indifference, particularly in multicultural settings, where minorities often face exclusion and intimidation.

Pope Francis commended initiatives fostering solidarity and peace, encouraging the delegation to persevere in spreading hope and promoting universal fraternity. He underscored the significance of respecting differences while working together to support the vulnerable and protect the planet.

Concluding his remarks, the Pope expressed gratitude for the delegation's efforts, calling their collaborative approach an inspiration for humanity’s collective mission to care for one another and the Earth.

Courtesy: Vatican News