Dear Brothers and Sisters, 

I am pleased to offer my cordial greetings to all taking part in the Conference sponsored by the International Council of Christians and Jews on the theme "When All This Is Over, How Do We Want the World To Be Different?" 

This year, the pandemic has made it necessary to hold the Conference virtually. The coronavirus has reminded us that we are all brothers and sisters, created in God's image and likeness (cf. Gen 1:26-27). This great tragedy has, in fact, affected everyone, regardless of race, age, sex, personal beliefs, nationality, economic status or any other factor. At the same time, the pandemic has brought to light the inequalities present in our world with regard to access to health care, economic and educational resources and environmental sustainability. Jews and Christians may not simply accept poverty and human suffering, but must strive together to overcome these problems (cf. The Gifts and the Calling of God Are Irrevocable, 48). Dialogue remains a first and fundamental step, one on which, as I observed in 2015, God, the Creator of the universe and Lord of history, always bestows his blessing (cf. Address to the International Council of Christians and Jews, 30 June 2015). 

With profound trust, I pray that the Almighty will guide your conversations in these days and bless your efforts to deepen the friendship between our faith traditions. 

[signed] Francis

Rome, from Saint John Lateran, 20 June 2021