(From our correspondents in Sydney) – "That he may keep enlightening mankind in the love of man, of one’s brothers and sisters". This is the welcome that the rabbi of the big synagogue of Sydney, Jeremy Lawrence, made to Benedict XVI at the meeting with the leaders of the other religions. "Meetings like this one highlight what we have in common rather than our differences", stated the rabbi who listed the common positions on such issues as the defence of the environment, of life, of rights, of justice, against oppression and persecution. "The WYD embodies his commitment to continuing this dialogue added Lawrence and for the good of mankind we must make foreigners become our neighbours and make our neighbours become our friends, turning the stereotypes of Christians, Jews and Muslims into human beings, friends and collaborators in the building of a shared global village". The meeting with the Pope was also attended by Lacey Josie, member of the Jewish delegation that told to SIR: "What amazed me is the fact he wanted to meet us and speak to us, one by one. I also spoke to him in German, as I originally come from Germany, and he smiled in surprise. I am sure he was glad for this meeting and his gratitude was apparent. We liked his speech, full of good omens for the future of dialogue".
