The Dicastery for Interreligious Dialogue and the World Council of Churches: A Partnership for Peace
When it comes to fostering peace and understanding, the Dicastery for Interreligious Dialogue (DID) and the World Council of Churches (WCC) are leading the way. In a joint statement released following their annual meeting in Rome, the two organizations reaffirmed their commitment to dialogue as a means of building bridges between different faith traditions.
At the meeting, held from 17 to 20 February 2025 at the Dicastery’s office, representatives from the DID and the WCC reflected on past initiatives, reviewed ongoing interreligious activities, and discussed future collaborations. With the 50th anniversary of their partnership approaching in 2027, the focus was on strengthening their long-standing collaboration and preparing for the years ahead.
A History of Collaboration
Since 1977, the DID and WCC have worked together to promote interreligious dialogue within an ecumenical framework. Their joint efforts have resulted in several important documents that have guided their work, including publications on prayer, interreligious marriage, and Christian witness in a multi-religious world. These documents serve as a roadmap for promoting peace, understanding, and cooperation among diverse religious communities.
Building Peace and Fraternity
During their discussions, both delegations emphasized the importance of dialogue in a world marked by conflict and division. They recognized the role that religious communities can play in healing divisions, promoting fraternity, and fostering reconciliation. By engaging in authentic dialogue, religions have the power to bring people together and create a more peaceful world.
As the meeting drew to a close, both the DID and WCC renewed their commitment to advancing interreligious initiatives that promote mutual respect and understanding. They expressed gratitude for their longstanding friendship and looked forward to continued collaboration in the years ahead. With the 50th anniversary of their partnership on the horizon, the future looks bright for these two organizations dedicated to building a more peaceful and harmonious world.
