Islamic Seminary Engaging in Interfaith Studies, Arafi Tells Cardinal
Ayatollah Alireza Arafi and his accompanying delegation met and held talks with Cardinal Leonardo Sandri, the Prefect of the Congregation for the Oriental Churches on Thursday.
“One of the strategies of Islamic seminaries is to focus on interfaith studies, especially on Islamic and Christian studies and in particular those of Shia and Catholic schools; various religious disciplines have been designed accordingly and hundreds of books, articles, and dissertations have been published so far,” Arafi said.
The Iranian cleric elaborated on the capacities of Islamic seminaries, noting that Islam and Shia school in particular, has a unifying approach toward religions.
The Islamic Revolution of Iran also highlighted this feature and strives to develop and deepen the cooperation of followers of religions by relying on commonalities, he added.
He hoped that the recent trip to the Vatican would result in increased cooperation and the signing of a joint document in the future.
For his part, Cardinal Sandri welcomed the delegation and appreciated their visit. He said efforts are underway to form a new world by developing brotherhood among humans, especially between Muslims and Christians, to promote love and peace.
Hoping for an end to war and hunger in the world, the Cardinal wished that people could be able to achieve their deserved dignity.
Catholic Churches in Asia, including those in Iran, are being administered by the Congregation for Oriental Churches.
Arafi, who is visiting the Vatican, earlier met and held talks with Pope Francis.
