A four-member delegation from the Zoroastrian Trust Funds of Europe travelled to the Vatican in October 2025 to participate in the 60th anniversary celebrations of Nostra Aetate, the landmark declaration issued during the Second Vatican Council that encourages interfaith dialogue and cooperation. The commemorative programme, titled “Walking Together in Hope,” was presided over by His Holiness Pope Leo XIV and reflected on six decades of engagement among diverse faith communities.

Representing the Zoroastrian faith were ZTFE Trustee Bapsy Dastur, Resident Priest Er. Yazad Bhadha, Er. Zubin Bhedwar and Interfaith Officer and Managing Committee member – Ruzbeh Hodiwala. The ceremony at the Paul VI Hall opened with a symbolic procession of faith representatives accompanied by children, followed by cultural performances celebrating global spiritual traditions. In his address, Pope Leo XIV urged religious leaders to guide humanity away from prejudice, anger and greed, while fostering compassion and shared responsibility.

Delegates also attended the Papal General Audience at St Peter’s Square, where the Pontiff highlighted sincere listening and mutual respect as the foundation of meaningful dialogue. He reflected on the biblical encounter at Jacob’s well, emphasising that genuine connection across cultures and beliefs strengthens the pursuit of truth and harmony.

During the International Meeting for Peace titled “Daring Peace,” held in Rome from 26 to 28 October, Ruzbeh Hodiwala represented ZTFE at discussions on ecological responsibility. Speaking on the panel “Caring for the Earth and Humanity,” he highlighted the ecological consciousness rooted in Zoroastrian philosophy and shared insights into global initiatives such as FEZANA’s Ava Project and the Faiths Forum for London’s Seeds of Change programme, which promote environmental awareness within faith communities.

The anniversary also featured interfaith prayer gatherings near the Colosseum, where Er. Bhadha and Er. Bhedwar led Zoroastrian benediction prayers for peace. Pope Leo XIV extended warm greetings to representatives of non-Christian traditions, reaffirming his vision of building bridges among religions. Through active participation in these historic events, the ZTFE delegation reinforced the enduring Zoroastrian message of unity, ecological responsibility and dialogue, leaving a lasting impression of faith communities working together toward a more hopeful and harmonious world. Pope Leo XIV’s commitment to interfaith engagement has been evident since the beginning of his pontificate, including his inauguration in May 2025 which was attended by ZTFE President Malcolm Deboo, Treasurer Javid Canteenwala, Ruzbeh Hodiwala alongside others.

[Courtesy: Ruzbeh Hodiwala]