Sixty years ago, Nostra Aetate was published, the conciliar declaration that reshaped the Catholic Church’s relationship with other religions, recognizing in them “what is true and holy.”

The document, adopted during the Second Vatican Council, represented a historic turning point in interreligious relations.

“It invites an authentic universal fraternity among peoples and believers, without erasing differences, but walking toward a harmony inspired by the Spirit,” recalled Archbishop Flavio Pace, Secretary of the Dicastery for Promoting Christian Unity.

To celebrate this anniversary, an international conference titled “Walking Together in Hope” was held on Tuesday, October 28, in the Paul VI Hall, the same day in 1965 when Pope Paul VI signed the declaration. The event brought together representatives of the world’s major religions from various continents. During the evening, the original text signed by Pope Paul VI was displayed, followed by personal testimonies and an address by the Pope.

At the conclusion of the event, a symbolic gesture involved Borgo Laudato si’: 5,000 small bags containing seeds were distributed, intended to be planted in the various communities from which the conference participants came. This represents “a call to rediscover the roots of that religious sentiment which transcends humanity, and a commitment to bear fruit together,” explained Archbishop Pace.

Pope Leo XIV’s Address
for the 60th Anniversary of Nostra Aetate “Walking Together in Hope”