Page 55 - October 7 - Teresa Pirola

Second, the Pope’s letter affirms the teaching of the Second Vatican Council when he writes that the church ‘rejects every form of anti-Judaism and anti-Semitism, unequivocally condemning manifestations of hatred towards Jews and Judaism as a sin against God’. Here, Pope Francis acknowledges the grim reality on the ground: ‘Together with you, we, Catholics, are very concerned about the terrible increase in attacks against Jews around the world. We had hoped that “never again” would be a refrain heard by the new generations, yet now we see that the path ahead requires ever closer collaboration to eradicate these phenomena.’
Third, the papal letter stresses the shared task of peacebuilding: ‘Together, Jews and Catholics, we must commit ourselves to this path of friendship, solidarity and cooperation in seeking ways to repair a destroyed world, working together in every part of the world, and especially in the Holy Land, to recover the ability to see in the face of every person the image of God, in which we were created.’
Our Jewish friends appreciate Catholic words of compassion, support and solidarity. They appreciate them even more when our words translate into practical commitments. So, what can Catholics do to live the sentiments of Pope Francis’ letter? Here are five suggestions:
1. Write a note of support to a Jewish friend, or to a Jewish community or organisation in your neighbourhood or state. There has been a staggering 738% increase in antisemitic incidents in Australia in recent months, and many Jews are feeling unsafe in their own country and concerned for the safety and wellbeing of their children. A note of reassurance from a fellow Australian is a welcome gesture.
2. Parents, teach your children what antisemitism is, and model what it means to be upstanders, not bystanders,
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