Vatican City: Every religion has a duty to say “no” to economic systems that impoverish both people and the planet, said Pope Leo XIV. He was addressing representatives of various religions who had come to Rome to attend his inauguration and express their loving cooperation with the Catholic Church. The Pope emphasized the need to continue interreligious dialogues of peace and harmony initiated by Pope Francis and all previous holy fathers beginning with Pope St. John XXIII.

He expressed joy in the presence of representatives from other religious traditions who participate in the search for God and His will. This is a time to build bridges and hold discussions rooted in human fraternity, he said. The Pope particularly stressed the importance of theological dialogue between Christians and Jews that fosters mutual understanding and respect. He also spoke about the role of each religious community in contributing to the grandeur of shared spiritual leadership, commitment to humanity, preservation of our common home, and the significance of standing against wars.