A couple of recent papal statements, reinforcing his sense that the most important work that should be happening between religions concerns the well being of human beings, justice, and peace.

From an address he gave to Greek Orthodox priests and seminarians in late February:

We must confront the challenges that threaten faith, cultivate the spiritual humus that has nourished Europe for centuries, reaffirm Christian values, promote peace and encounter, even in the most difficult conditions, and deepen those elements of faith and ecclesial life that can lead us to the goal of full communion in truth and in charity, especially now that the official dialogue between the Catholic Church and the Orthodox Church as a whole is resuming its journey with renewed vigor.

In Christian life, faith, hope and charity go hand in hand. Our witness in today’s world will be truer and more effective if we realize that the way toward unity demands of all of us more living faith, sounder hope and charity which is truly the deepest inspiration that nourishes our reciprocal relations! Hope, however, should be practiced with patience and humility, and with trust in the One who guides us.

Although it may not seem within our immediate reach, the goal of unity among Christ’s disciples does not prevent us from living with one another in charity at all levels, from this moment. There is no place or time in which love modeled on the love of our Teacher, Jesus, is superfluous; love cannot fail to be a short cut to full communion.

To members of the American Jewish Committee, today:

Judaism, Christianity and Islam believe in the one God, Creator of heaven and earth. It follows, therefore, that all three monotheistic religions are called to cooperate with one another for the common good of humanity, serving the cause of justice and peace in the world. This is especially important today when particular attention must be given to teaching respect for God, for religions and their symbols, and for holy sites and places of worship. Religious leaders have a responsibility to work for reconciliation through genuine dialogue and acts of human solidarity.