The Roma leader of the rabbi pope Francis praise for his “opening and warmth”
It is expected that around 170 foreign delegations reach the Vatican For the funeral of Pope Francis on Saturday. Among the world leaders who will participate are the President of the United States Donald Trump, president of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen, French president Emmanuel Macron, The kings of Spain And many others.
The head of the rabbi of Rome, Riccardo di Segni, who shared his reflections on His relationship with the late Pope and the evolution of the dialogue between the Catholic Church and Judaism. “I had many opportunities to meet Pope Francis, both in formal and informal contexts,” said the rabbi of signs to Euronews.
“In each of them it was possible establish a personal connection beyond of formalities. I have always appreciated its availability and warmth. “Although he recognizes that his relationship was not exempt from disagreements, the rabbi of Segni underlined the importance of frankness and Respect in any dialogue.
Tensions between Pope and Israel
“There were times when we didn’t agree, but this is also part of the dialogue,” he said. “Dialogue means having different opinions. Otherwise, it is nothing more than rhetoric. The most important thing is that there is mutual respect and will to listen to. “
Following the Jewish tradition, while the funeral falls to Shabbat, The rabbi will instead go to the ceremony To move by car. The divergent points of view on the Gaza war sometimes have tension of relationships between the Vatican and Israel.
However, it is expected that The Israeli ambassador to the Vatican represents the country At the funeral. Thursday, Prime Minister Benjamín Netanyahu expressed his condolences to the Catholic community for The death of Pope FrancisAlthough it is not expected that it will participate in the pontiff’s funeral.
