Cardinal Czerny: Human fraternity makes it possible for all to live with hope

By Francesca Merlo

The designation of 4 February as the International Day of Human Fraternity is the result of a UN General Assembly resolution that highlights the importance of a landmark Document signed on that same day in 2019, in Abu Dhabi, by Pope Francis and the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, Ahmed Al-Tayeb.

The Document upholds the value of interreligious dialogue as a means of fostering freedom of religion and belief. In times of growing polarization, the two leaders affirm that dialogue is one of the most effective means to build trust among people, and help communities counter violence committed in the name of religion.

It provides a framework, mechanism and inspiration for action to ensure men and women across the world find ways to live and thrive together in fraternity and peace.

Ahead of the annual event, Cardinal Michael Czerny, SJ, the Prefect of the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development, spoke to Vatican News' Francesca Merlo.

The Cardinal looked ahead to the significance of the 2nd International Day of Human Fraternity on Friday, noting that it is “a day to give thanks, and to ask God to bless all our brothers and sisters with hope and with courage for living our human vocation together.”