“You may be the only person who has the moral authority to do this,” Lauder said.” I believe that G-d in his way has brought us here today to ask you to do this, on behalf of all the Jewish people in the world.”
The WJC noted that Lauder’s meeting with the pope coincided with the initiation of the congress’ representative office to the Holy See, “marking the establishment of the first-ever liaison office of a Jewish organization on Vatican property” and “signifying deepening Jewish-Catholic ties.”
Lauder said that for years the World Jewish Congress “has tirelessly pursued a deeper bond between world Jewry and the Catholic Church.”
“Our Vatican office’s inauguration crystallizes the unwavering dedication of both the WJC and the Holy See to mend historical rifts and sculpt a future underscored by unity, particularly as Israel counters devastating assaults,” he added.
During the meeting, Lauder also gifted Pope Francis a “seminal document” titled “Kishreinu.” The WJC said the document “encapsulates the intricate historical and cultural tapestry binding Jewish and Catholic communities around the globe.”