On Wednesday, October 22, 2025, an insightful and timely event, “Facing the Future as Friends: Catholics, Jews, and Muslims: Trilateral Relationships Sixty Years After Nostra Aetate,” was held at Saint Joseph’s University in Philadelphia. This event celebrated the 60th anniversary of the Second Vatican Council document Nostra Aetate (In Our Time), and the idea for the celebration was brought forward by Peace Islands. We, as Peace Islands Institute Pennsylvania (PIIPA), were proud to be one of the organizers of the panel, which was organized in collaboration with the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, the Board of Rabbis of Greater Philadelphia, the City of Philadelphia Commission on Human Relations, and the City of Philadelphia Office of Muslim Engagement, alongside the Saint Joseph’s University Institute for Jewish-Catholic Relations.

The event brought together leaders and participants from diverse faith backgrounds to explore the ongoing importance of interreligious dialogue. We were honored to witness a keynote address by Cardinal Wilton Gregory, Archbishop Emeritus of Washington. Although he could not deliver the talk in person due to a personal emergency, his speech was read aloud and offered a wealth of historical and theological insights. Among his key recommendations was the development of a trilateral approach to foster Jewish-Catholic-Muslim dialogue rather than maintaining separate conversations.

The panel featured distinguished speakers, including Rabba Rori Picker Neiss, Prof. Zeki Saritoprak, and Rev. Russell K. McDougall. Their reflections, drawn from their respective faith traditions, sparked meaningful conversations and emphasized how mutual understanding and respect can create bridges between communities. Rev. McDougall’s spontaneous analyses were particularly noted for their depth and relevance, offering nuanced perspectives on theology and pastoral care.

Generous support came from sponsors such as the American Jewish Committee, the Bishop’s Committee on Ecumenical and Interreligious Affairs, the Jewish Community Relations Council, Majlis Ash-Shura, and the National Council of Synagogues.

Attendees actively contributed to the dialogue, sharing insights on Catholic theology, biblical and doctrinal teachings, and ways to implement interfaith initiatives at the parish level. Many highlighted how their ministries, including Faithful Neighbors, had already adopted ideas from the conference, such as the trilateral Abrahamic approach to interfaith collaboration.

Thanks to facilitators Rabbi Or Rose and Dr. Homayra Ziad, the discussions remained open, welcoming, and deeply engaging. Participants had the chance to share experiences, ask questions, and explore challenging topics in a respectful and thoughtful environment.

On this 60th anniversary of Nostra Aetate, events like these remind us of the power of dialogue, understanding, and community-building. We are grateful to all who participated and continue to contribute to peaceful, connected, and inclusive communities.

Together, we learn, grow, and take steps toward a more harmonious world.