Head of Iranian Seminaries Calls for Stronger Interfaith Coop. in Letter to New Pope

IQNA – A senior Iranian cleric has extended congratulations to the new head of the Catholic Church, calling for greater interfaith dialogue and cooperation in a letter that also pays tribute to the late Pope Francis.

Ayatollah Alireza Arafi, director of Iran’s Islamic seminaries, addressed his message to Pope Leo XIV, who was recently elected following the passing of Pope Francis. The letter highlights shared values between Islam and Christianity and expresses hope for closer ties between religious communities.

"I congratulate Your Excellency on your elevation to the high position of leadership of the Catholic Church," Arafi wrote. He described the papacy as “a significant responsibility and a major opportunity to continue noble efforts in promoting spirituality, social justice, family values, interfaith closeness, and confrontation against oppression and corruption around the world.”

He also expressed condolences on the death of Pope Francis, praising his lifelong dedication to moral values, peace, and spirituality. “I offer my condolences to you and the global Christian community on the loss of Pope Francis, who devoted his life to ethics, peace, and spirituality. I hope his enlightened path and spiritual commitment will continue.”

Arafi pointed to the “valuable commonalities” between Islam and Christianity, such as faith in God, family, justice, and the struggle against injustice. “These shared values have always served as a foundation for dialogue and constructive cooperation among religions and nations,” he said.

He hoped the new papal era will further strengthen such collaboration. “This cooperation can serve as a bridge for peace, coexistence, and cultural and religious convergence in the world.”

He concluded by expressing hope that academic and cultural exchanges between Iran’s Islamic seminaries and the Vatican will expand, contributing to the promotion of divine and human values.

Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, formerly a bishop and Vatican official overseeing bishops' appointments, was elected Pope Leo XIV earlier this month by the College of Cardinals.

He succeeds Pope Francis, who died at the age of 88 after more than a decade of service. Francis was widely respected for his commitment to the poor, interfaith outreach, and environmental advocacy.

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