The Second Vatican Council’s declaration, Nostra Aetate (“In Our Time”), proclaimed by Pope Paul VI on October 28, 1965, highlights the Catholic Church’s recognition and respect for the spiritual, moral, and ethical values present in other religions.

Nostra Aetate encourages Christians to engage in meaningful dialogue and cooperation with people of all religious backgrounds. Rather than focusing on differences, it calls for a spirit of mutual understanding and respect, urging believers to seek common ground and appreciate the shared values that unite humanity.

In addition to promoting dialogue, Nostra Aetate strongly rejects any form of discrimination or persecution based on race, religion, or nationality. It calls on the Catholic Church and its members to actively oppose intolerance and hostility, striving instead for peace and harmony in a world that is often divided by religious and cultural differences.

This declaration marked a turning point in the Catholic Church’s approach to other religions, moving away from a history of exclusion and fostering a new era of openness and collaboration. Nostra Aetate laid the foundation for numerous interfaith initiatives and dialogue programs that have since flourished, promoting a deeper understanding between Christians and followers of other faiths. It stands as a milestone in the Church’s efforts to heal divisions, build bridges, and work toward reconciliation and unity among all people.