American Jewish Committee Advances Catholic-Jewish Relations with Visit to Vatican , Prayers for Pope Francis Recovery and Presentation of Unique Gift
April 2 , 2023 — Vatican City
American Jewish Committee ( AJC ) President Michael Tichnor and CEO Ted Deutch led a leadership delegation to the Vatican . At a festive Shabbat dinner for Catholic and Jewish leadership , Tichnor presented AJC ’ s gift to Pope Francis , which was received by Cardinal Leonardo Sandri , vice dean of the College of Cardinals , on behalf of the ailing pontiff . The gift , a unique Tree of Life image in which the nanochips of the Holy Scriptures of Christianity , Judaism and Islam are embodied , includes quotes from all three Abrahamic traditions referring to the Divine word as the Tree of Life .
“ Pope Francis continues to lead the way of mutual respect and love between all people and especially in the family of Abraham , and this artwork of beauty , both physical and spiritual , encapsulates that message , which , we pray , will extend to all humanity ,” said Tichnor . “ We deeply appreciate the special relationship we have enjoyed with the Holy See for some sixty years . We are moved to be with our Catholic friends as we all celebrate the tenth anniversary of Pope Francis ’ s pontificate .”
“ We are so grateful for the transformation in Catholic-Jewish relations and for the privilege AJC has enjoyed and continues to enjoy as a central actor in this ongoing historic reconciliation , which Pope Francis has taken to even greater heights ,” said Deutch . “ Pope Francis ’ s love and care for the Jewish People is universally known . We are grateful for his strong voice condemning antisemitism .”
Upon receiving the papal gift , Sandri declared that “ Pope Francis will be very happy with this beautiful gift , especially because it expresses his vision for human fraternity in our world .”