Exploring Interreligious Dialogue and Climate Justice in Rome
Religious leaders from various backgrounds, including a Cardinal, an Ambassador, and a Lutheran Bishop, have come together in Rome to discuss pressing issues such as climate justice, social cohesion, and interreligious dialogue.
By Joseph Tulloch
From the 8th to the 9th of April, the Pontifical Antonianum University in Rome is hosting a gathering titled ‘Common Horizons – Interreligious Pathways to Social Cohesion and Climate Justice in Europe’. The central question being explored is how religions can collaborate to promote social cohesion and address climate justice challenges.
The event kicked off with Cardinal George Koovakad, the new Prefect of the Dicastery for Interreligious Dialogue, quoting Pope Benedict XVI’s insight that while globalization has brought us closer together as “neighbors”, it has not necessarily made us “brothers”. Cardinal Koovakad emphasized the need for a spiritual and lifestyle shift away from a “technocratic paradigm” to truly address the world’s problems.
Ambassador António de Almeida-Ribeiro, acting Secretary-General of KAICIID, highlighted the importance of synergy between religious and secular institutions. He stressed that when religious networks and wisdom are combined with policymaking frameworks, the impact can be profound in creating constructive solutions.
Bishop Kari Mangrud Alvsvåg, representing the Church of Norway and serving as President of the European Council of Religious Leaders, shared insights on the significant role religious institutions play in building community and combating loneliness in society.
KAICIID’s Role in Promoting Dialogue
Ambassador Almeida-Ribeiro discussed the unique structure and mission of KAICIID, an international dialogue forum that helped organize the conference. Established in 2012 through a collaboration between Spain, Portugal, Saudi Arabia, and the Holy See, KAICIID’s board comprises representatives from Christian, Muslim, Jewish, Hindu, and Buddhist traditions.
The Ambassador highlighted KAICIID’s partnerships with global bodies like the United Nations, the Arab League, and the African Union, emphasizing their mission to foster dialogue amidst today’s challenges of conflict, migration, and social unrest.
KAICIID’s ultimate goal, according to Ambassador Almeida-Ribeiro, is to create bridges between people, societies, cultures, and religions to build a shared home where all can thrive.
As the world grapples with complex issues, gatherings like these offer hope for a future where diverse religious beliefs can come together to address common challenges and promote unity.
