The Vatican has called for deeper interreligious cooperation through a “liberating dialogue” that moves beyond words to concrete actions for peace, justice, and human dignity.
“In our time, marked by division, conflict and suffering, we recognize the urgent need for a liberating dialogue, one that is not limited to words but is capable of translating those words into concrete actions for peace, justice and dignity for all,” the Vatican said in a message to Buddhists around the world on the occasion of Vesak.
The message, issued by the Dicastery for Interreligious Dialogue, also emphasized the role of religious traditions in addressing “the unsolved riddles of human existence,” echoing the Second Vatican Council’s declaration Nostra Aetate.
“The longing for fraternity and authentic dialogue… motivates us to strive for unity and love among all peoples and nations,” it added.
Titled “Buddhists and Christians in Liberating Dialogue for Our Time,” the message was signed by Cardinal George Jacob Koovakad, Prefect of the Dicastery, and Msgr. Indunil Janakaratne Kodithuwakku Kankanamalage, its Secretary.
“As in past years, we readily extend our heartfelt greetings and warm good wishes on the joyful celebration of Vesak,” the message began.
The Vatican acknowledged the festival’s deep spiritual meaning, commemorating the birth, enlightenment, and passing of the Buddha.
This year’s message was also linked to the Catholic Church’s Jubilee, described as “a time of grace, reconciliation and spiritual renewal.”
Marking the 60th anniversary of Nostra Aetate, the Vatican reaffirmed the Church’s position: “The Catholic Church rejects nothing of what is true and holy” in other religions and holds “a high regard for the manner of life and conduct, the precepts and doctrines which… reflect a ray of that truth which enlightens all men and women.”
Referring to Buddhism, the Dicastery cited the Council document’s affirmation that it “testifies to the essential inadequacy of this changing world” and proposes “a way of life by which people can… attain a state of perfect liberation.”
The message described the Buddhist path to liberation as one that “involves transcending ignorance, craving, and suffering through insight, ethical conduct, and mental discipline.” It added: “The journey towards Nibbana – the ultimate freedom from the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth – highlights the transformative power of wisdom and compassion.”
It also drew a parallel between Buddhist and Christian understandings of truth and liberation. The Dicastery quoted the Dhammapada: “He who is free from craving and attachment… is truly called the profoundly wise one, the great man,” and Jesus in the Gospel of John: “You will know the truth, and the truth will make you free” (John 8:32).
Concluding the message, the Vatican expressed hope that dialogue between Christians and Buddhists may continue to “offer worthy responses to the challenges of our time.”
“We wish you a blessed and fruitful celebration of Vesak!” the message ended.
