WORK TOGETHER FOR PEACE AND JUSTICE IN THE WORLD

VATICAN CITY, MAY 22, 2003 (VIS) - This morning the Holy Father received in audience a group of representatives from the World Jewish Congress and the International Jewish Committee for Interreligious Consultations.

John Paul II affirmed that "even if today's world is often marked by violence, repression and exploitation, these realities do not represent the last word about our human destiny. God promises a New Heaven and a New Earth. We know that God will wipe away all tears, and that mourning and pain will be no more. Jews and Christians believe that our lives are a journey towards the fulfillment of God's promises."

"In light of the rich common religious heritage that we share, we can consider the present as a challenging opportunity for joint endeavors of peace and justice in our world. The defense of the dignity of every human being made in the image and likeness of God is a cause which must engage all believers. This sort of practical cooperation between Christians and Jews requires courage and vision, as well as trust that it is God who brings forth good from our efforts."

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