Jewish congratulations for Pope Leo

Congratulations have been sent to newly-elected Pope Leo XIV from Jewish sources in Israel, the United States and Australia.

In New York, the president of the World Jewish Congress, Ronald S. Lauder, wrote: “The World Jewish Congress (WJC) congratulates Pope Leo XIV on his election as the next leader of the Catholic Church.

The WJC’s relationship with the Holy See spans decades and is grounded in a deep, ongoing commitment to interfaith dialogue. This partnership has centred on shared concerns such as the welfare of Jewish and Catholic communities, the fight against antisemitism and hatred, and the defence of religious freedom around the world.

The WJC looks forward to continuing and deepening this essential dialogue under the leadership of Pope Leo XIV. At a time of global crisis, the importance of this relationship is only heightened.”

In Jerusalem, Israel’s President Isaac Herzog, said: “I congratulate Cardinal Robert Prevost, the newly elected Pope Leo XIV, on assuming this sacred and momentous responsibility – the first American Pope. I send you my warmest wishes from the Holy City of Jerusalem.

We look forward to enhancing the relationship between Israel and the Holy See, and strengthening the friendship between Jews and Christians in the Holy Land and around the world.

May your papacy be one of building bridges and understanding between all faiths and peoples. May we see the immediate and safe return of the hostages still held in Gaza, and a new era of peace in our region and around the world.”

In Sydney, the co-CEO of The Executive Council of Australian Jewry, Peter Wertheim, wrote to Archbishop Amel Nona, Chair of the Bishops Commission for Christian Unity and Inter-religious Dialogue, Australian Catholic Bishops’ Conference: “Both personally and on behalf of the Australian Jewish community we write to extend to you and to all Australian Catholics our congratulations and sincere best wishes on the election of

Cardinal Robert Prevost as his Holiness Pope Leo XIV.

For the worldwide Catholic community, the election of a new Pope is both a source of joy and a harbinger of hope for a kinder, more just and peaceful world. May their prayers be fulfilled.

The new Pope is known for his humility, gentle spirit, prudence and warmth. As a Catholic in the Augustinian tradition, who believes in the spirit of synodality, Pope Leo is known to work in a collegiate and consultative manner, always looking to bridge rather than exacerbate

differences of opinion. We very much hope that this will continue to be his approach towards the Jewish people and the State of Israel.”

JNS