Page 62 - Built For God Handbook (Bible Verses) - The Christian Edition of the Tao Te Ching - The New Evangelization - Pope John Paul II

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This declaration marked a turning point in the Catholic
Church’s approach to other religions, moving away from a history of
exclusion and fostering a new era of openness and collaboration.
Nostra Aetate laid the foundation for numerous interfaith initiatives
and dialogue programs that have since flourished, promoting a
deeper understanding between Christians and followers of other
faiths. It stands as a milestone in the Church’s efforts to heal
divisions, build bridges, and work toward reconciliation and unity
among all people.

In Vietnam, we are witnessing a remarkable act of God as
He opens the door to gather the faithful, calling His children to
holiness. Since taking office in March 2023, President Thuong has
affirmed his government’s respect for the freedom of belief and
religion. In a historic move, President Thuong and Cardinal Parolin
have signed an agreement allowing a representative of the Pope to
reside in Vietnam and establish an office there—an unprecedented
arrangement since the end of the Vietnam War in 1975. On
December 23, 2023, Pope Francis appointed Archbishop Marek
Zalewski as Vietnam’s first Papal Representative, heading the
newly established “Permanent Office of the Holy See in Vietnam.”
This significant appointment marks a major milestone in
strengthening diplomatic relations between Vietnam and the Holy
See. President Thuong, who was deeply moved by his meeting with
Pope Francis and Cardinal Parolin during a visit to the Vatican in
July 2023, shares the aspiration of Vietnam’s seven million
Catholics to welcome the Pope.

On January 11, 2024, Bishop Vann, Fr. Bao, and Keith
returned to Vietnam, retracing the steps they had taken the year