VATICAN CITY, 18 APR 2008 (VIS) - At 5.20 p.m. today, the Holy Father visited New York's Park East Synagogue, which was built in 1889 and is one of the city's historic landmarks. The members of the synagogue are involved in educational and charitable activities and its Rabbi, the Austrian Arthur Schneier, a Holocaust survivor, is president of the Appeal of Conscience Foundation which campaigns to make the Cross the Crescent, and the Star of David symbols of peace, tolerance and mutual respect.
In his address, the Holy Father spoke of his desire to express his "respect and esteem for the Jewish community in New York City. ... I find it moving", he said, "to recall that Jesus, as a young boy, heard the words of Scripture and prayed in a place such as this".
After thanking Rabbi Schneier for his words of welcome, Benedict XVI said: "I know that the Jewish community make a valuable contribution to the life of the city, and I encourage all of you to continue building bridges of friendship with all the many different ethnic and religious groups present in your neighbourhood".
The Pope renewed his Passover greetings to the community and assured them of his prayers "at this time, as you prepare to celebrate the great deeds of the Almighty, and to sing the praises of Him Who has worked such wonders for His people".
PV-U.S.A./MEETING SYNAGOGUE/NEW YORK VIS 20080419 (240)
In his address, the Holy Father spoke of his desire to express his "respect and esteem for the Jewish community in New York City. ... I find it moving", he said, "to recall that Jesus, as a young boy, heard the words of Scripture and prayed in a place such as this".
After thanking Rabbi Schneier for his words of welcome, Benedict XVI said: "I know that the Jewish community make a valuable contribution to the life of the city, and I encourage all of you to continue building bridges of friendship with all the many different ethnic and religious groups present in your neighbourhood".
The Pope renewed his Passover greetings to the community and assured them of his prayers "at this time, as you prepare to celebrate the great deeds of the Almighty, and to sing the praises of Him Who has worked such wonders for His people".
PV-U.S.A./MEETING SYNAGOGUE/NEW YORK VIS 20080419 (240)
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