Patriarch Daniel of Romania sent a message on Friday on the occasion of a working meeting between representatives of officially recognized religious denominations and experts from the Romanian Government, focused on combating antisemitism and other forms of intolerance.
The Patriarch described the initiative as timely and necessary, noting that it reflects the Romanian state’s recognition of the role of religious communities as “spiritual, educational, social-charitable, cultural, and social partners, as well as factors of social peace,” in accordance with national legislation.
In his message, Patriarch Daniel stressed that the Romanian Orthodox Church firmly rejects antisemitic and xenophobic actions, attitudes, and public discourse. He reaffirmed the Church’s constant commitment to promoting peace, social harmony, interreligious dialogue, and peaceful coexistence, values grounded in love of neighbor, solidarity, and mutual respect.
He underlined that cooperation among religious denominations, based on understanding and mutual respect, represents an essential tool in preventing and countering intolerance and in fostering a culture of dialogue and peace. The meeting, he added, highlights the importance of responsible collaboration between state institutions and religious communities in protecting and promoting respect for the dignity of every human person, regardless of religious or ethnic affiliation.
Patriarch Daniel emphasized that any form of hatred, discrimination, or intolerance is incompatible with the message of the Gospel of Jesus Christ and with the moral values underpinning the Christian faith. Concluding his message, he expressed hope that the discussions would lead to sustainable joint initiatives and effective solutions, contributing to a Romanian society more deeply committed to human dignity, harmony, peace, and social cohesion.
Source: Basilica.ro