The Declaration Nostra Aetate

Saint Francis and His Inspiration for the Interreligious Meetings of Assisi

Abstract

This theological-historical reflection approaches interreligious dialogue through the spirituality of Saint Francis of Assisi, in consonance with the Nostra Aetate Declaration of the Second Vatican Council. It departs from the evangelical experience of the Saint of Assisi, whose life was marked by poverty, fraternity, and peace. The encounter between Saint Francis and Sultan Malik al-Kamil, which took place during the Crusades, is presented as a historical and spiritual paradigm of openness, respect, and mutual listening among different religious traditions. The Nostra Aetate Declaration recognizes the presence of values of truth and holiness in other religions and calls Christians to dialogue, collaboration, and the construction of peace grounded in mutual respect. In this way, the study highlights the path of reconciliation between faith and culture, spirituality and mission, inspired by the Franciscan experience. It concludes that Saint Francis of Assisi, through his attitude of universal fraternity and his capacity to recognize the face of God in every creature, remains a timeless model for the Christian practice of interreligious dialogue. His witness, enlightened by Nostra Aetate, challenges the Church to continue promoting a culture of peace, encounter, and respect in a pluralistic and globalized world.