J Kuruvachira

Interreligious dialogue and Popes Paul VI, John Paul II and Benedict XVI J Kuruvachira

Dialogue among religions is becoming indispensable for the promotion of peace in the world, and is envisaged as a way to find solutions to many of the tensions and conflicts existing in society. In the present epoch of tensions between religions and cultures, the subject of interreligious dialogue is particularly important, if not crucial. The Catholic Church, aware of these factors, especially since the Vatican Council II, has recognised the significance and indispensability of interreligious dialogue, and considers it as one of the ways to carry out her mission in the contemporary world. This study brings together in one volume the teachings of three Popes - Paul VI, John Paul II and Benedict XVI - on interreligious dialogue and their specific contributions and pastoral guidelines for its promotion. The sources used for the study are the official teachings of the three Popes which are found in their encyclical letters, apostolic exhortations, pastoral constitutions, homilies, catechesis during general audiences, and special addresses and messages. This book can serve as resource material for students who do basic and well as advanced courses in Catholic theology of religions and interreligious dialogue and for anyone interested in knowing about the teachings of the Popes on dialogue.