On 13 April 1986, Pope John Paul II made a historic visit to the Great Synagogue of Rome, where he was welcomed by the Chief Rabbi of Rome, Elio Toaff. This marked the first time since the era of St Peter that a pope had entered a synagogue. In the address he delivered on that occasion, John Paul II spoke these significant words: “The Church condemns hatred, persecution, and every form of anti-Semitism directed against Jews—at any time and by anyone. I repeat: by anyone.” From the standpoint of historically strained relations between Jews and Christians, it was a landmark moment, and the words spoken on that occasion continue to resonate to this day with all who are deeply committed to dialogue and reconciliation. Exactly forty years later, on 13…