Pope Benedict XVI on Thursday urged the leaders of religious communities in Israel whom he received at the Vatican to "educate" their followers to a "deeper understanding" of members of different religions, stating that the relationship with God must be "a force for peace".
Israel's Chief Rabbi Yona Metzger, Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem Archbishop Fouad Twal, Chief Imam of Israel Mohammed Kiwan and the leader of the Druze community, Moufak Rate, were received together for a meeting, which is a continuation of interfaith dialogue of Assisi.
'Openness to cooperation with people of different traditions' (Photo: EPA)
"We have the grave responsibility to educate members of our respective religious communities, with the aim of developing a greater understanding of each other and an openness to cooperation with people of different traditions," the pope told them.
"The relationship between man and God is a force for peace," he said, once again rejecting "violence in the name of religion."
Pope rejects 'violence in the name of religion' (Photo: AFP)
"May God hear the prayers of all men and all women who ask for peace for Jerusalem," said Benedict XVI.
Last month, the pope met with some 300 dignitaries of all religions in Assisi, Umbria for a time of reflection and dialogue for peace.
Rabbi David Rosen represented the Chief Rabbinate of Israel. The next day, Benedict stressed the special relationship between Christians and Jews.