A significant milestone in interfaith relations unfolded at the Vatican as Jewish leaders commemorated the 60th anniversary of Nostra Aetate, a landmark declaration that transformed the relationship between the Catholic Church and the Jewish people. From November 17-20, 2025, Rabbi Hector Epelbaum of B’nai Torah Congregation participated in a gathering that emphasized reflection, celebration, and a renewed commitment to dialogue among faiths.
The event, organized by Abarbanel University in collaboration with the Pontifical University of the Holy Cross, provided a platform to explore the declaration’s enduring impact. Participants engaged in discussions addressing the evolving roles of religious leaders and the challenges of intercultural dialogue. The program included visits to historically significant sites such as the Jewish Catacombs, the Fosse Ardeatine, and the Great Mosque of Rome, culminating in a private audience with Pope Leo XIV.
Nostra Aetate, issued in 1965, marked a pivotal shift by rejecting antisemitism and fostering respect between Jews and Catholics. Rabbi Epelbaum’s participation served as a reminder of both the progress made and the responsibilities that remain in fostering interfaith understanding. “Before 1965, centuries of Christian teachings had fostered suspicion and hostility toward Jews,” he reflected. The declaration not only amended church doctrine but also inspired profound changes in community relationships.
The discussions highlighted the influence of notable figures like Prof. Abraham Joshua Heschel, a key advocate for Jewish-Catholic dialogue during the Second Vatican Council. Heschel’s approach emphasized honesty and moral responsibility rather than mere theological agreement, values that resonate throughout Nostra Aetate. His legacy continues to shape contemporary interfaith initiatives, encouraging leaders to approach dialogue with humility and respect.
A particularly poignant moment during the visit was the presentation of a symbolic gift from B’nai Torah Congregation to Pope Leo XIV. The artwork, created by artist Janette Kulvin Oren, features a dove, an olive branch, and the words “Shalom” and “Pax,” alongside a verse from Psalm 133: “How good and how pleasant it is for brothers and sisters to dwell together in unity.” This gift encapsulated the shared desire for peace and understanding among different faiths.
As the anniversary of Nostra Aetate highlights the progress in Jewish-Christian relations, Rabbi Epelbaum’s visit underscores the potential for sincere dialogue to foster unity. “It will remain one of the highlights of my rabbinate and will continue to inspire me to teach, build bridges, and advocate for greater understanding between faiths,” he stated.
Such commemorations not only honor the past but also serve as a call to action for future collaboration, aiming for a more harmonious coexistence among diverse communities worldwide. The legacy of Nostra Aetate continues to guide interfaith efforts, reminding leaders and congregations alike of the transformative power of dialogue.
