ROME (JTA) — Pope Benedict XVI sent out a High Holidays message auguring peace, justice and friendship in the Jewish New Year.
In a message addressed to Rome’s chief rabbi, Riccardo Di Segni, the pope expressed his hope that "these important feasts may be an occasion for many blessings from on high, and a source of infinite grace."
The pope added, "May the desire grow in all of us to promote justice and peace in the world, which has great need of authentic witnesses of truth. May God in his goodness protect the Jewish community and allow us to deepen our friendship, both here in Rome and all over the world."
JTA has documented Jewish history in real-time for over a century. Keep our journalism strong by joining us in supporting independent, award-winning reporting.
