In Poland, a pastoral letter from the national bishops' conference has sparked significant discussion. The document, which condemns antisemitism and invites Catholics to visit synagogues, met with resistance from many priests who refused to read it in their parishes. This reveals the deep divisions still present in Polish society and church regarding relations with Judaism.
The letter marked the 40th anniversary of Pope John Paul II's historic visit to Rome's main synagogue in 1986, a milestone in Jewish-Christian dialogue. The bishops aimed to commemorate this event and encourage respectful coexistence, but instead faced opposition.
The debate shows that antisemitism remains a sensitive issue in Poland. Many believers feel uneasy about the invitation to visit synagogues, seeing it as an imposition. Others welcome it as a long-overdue step. The church faces the challenge of maintaining unity while sending clear signals against hatred and exclusion.
Biblical Foundations for Interfaith Dialogue
The Bible repeatedly calls Christians to love and respect all people. In the Old Testament we read: "The foreigner residing among you must be treated as your native-born. Love them as yourself, for you were foreigners in Egypt" (Leviticus 19:34, NIV). This commandment of neighborly love knows no boundaries.
Jesus Christ himself sought dialogue with those of other faiths. In his encounter with the Samaritan woman at Jacob's well (John 4:1-42), he bridges cultural and religious divides. He shows that true worship is not tied to a place or tradition but happens in spirit and truth. This example encourages Christians to reach out to others.
The apostle Paul urges in his letter to the Romans: "Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for whoever loves others has fulfilled the law" (Romans 13:8, NIV). This love includes respect for the Jewish tradition, which is our root. Paul himself took pride in his Jewish heritage and emphasized Israel's ongoing election (Romans 11:28-29).
Challenges and Opportunities for Congregations
The debate around the pastoral letter shows that many believers are uncertain. Some fear a watering down of the Christian faith; others see the rejection of the letter as clinging to old prejudices. For congregations, the task is to promote dialogue in a way that takes fears seriously and leads to deeper understanding.
A first step could be to address the biblical foundations of Jewish-Christian relations in worship services and small groups. Why is respect for Judaism not a betrayal of faith in Christ but an enrichment? How can we understand Israel's ongoing election without falling into supersessionism?
Practical encounters, such as joint projects or synagogue visits, can help break down prejudices. It is important that such initiatives are not imposed from above but developed within congregations. Bishops can set the framework, but local implementation must come from conviction.
A Practical Example
In some Polish cities, successful dialogue models already exist. Christian congregations regularly invite Jewish speakers to discuss shared history and differences. Joint commemorative events are also held.
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