The document Nostra Aetate, adopted during the Second Vatican Council in 1965, stands as a milestone in the Catholic Church’s relationship with other faiths―especially Islam and Judaism. By encouraging dialogue and mutual respect, it paved the way for understanding and new encounters between religious communities.
On November 5-6, 2025, a conference was held in Frankfurt, Germany to commemorate the 60th anniversary of this ground-breaking document. The event brought together distinguished speakers, scholars, and professionals from diverse backgrounds to reflect on the legacy of Nostra Aetate and explore the future of interfaith dialogue. The conference featured keynote presentations, country-specific reports, interactive workshops, and panel discussions, all designed to foster open conversation and shared learning.
The central point of the event was a panel discussion titled “How do Jews, Christians and Muslims understand Nostra Aetate today?” It included an open question and answer session with the audience. In addition, there was an interfaith prayer service and an evening networking event to encourage informal exchange and relationship-building.
The Delegate General for Ecumenism and Interreligious Dialogue [EDI], Friar Sławomir KLEIN, attended the conference and gave a presentation on the Franciscan model of interreligious dialogue and the essence of the “Spirit of Assisi” meetings.
On the second day, the participants visited Frankfurt’s Westend Synagogue and Abu Bakr Mosque.
For more detailed information about the conference program (in German) go to:
Nostra Aetate Konferenz 05.11 – 06.11.2025
Friar Sławomir KLEIN, Delegate General for the EDI
