On June 3, 2026, Angelica Berrie was received in audience by Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican. During the meeting, Ms. Berrie presented the Holy Father with a commemorative volume – Studying Judaism, Strengthening Dialogue – chronicling nearly two decades of the Russell Berrie Foundation’s John Paul II Center for Interreligious Dialogue Fellowship Program.
The publication, edited by Dr. Taras Dzyubanskyy and Ms. Berrie, highlights the program’s history, the achievements of its fellows, and the many initiatives they have undertaken around the world to advance interreligious understanding. Ms. Berrie also spoke about the work of the John Paul II Center Fellows Network and asked the Holy Father to bless its members and their ongoing efforts to promote dialogue, peace, and mutual understanding among people of different faiths and cultures.
The audience took place during the concluding events of the Russell Berrie Foundation’s John Paul II Center for Interreligious Dialogue Fellowship Program, held at the Pontifical University of Saint Thomas Aquinas (Angelicum) on June 3–4, 2026. This year’s conference, entitled “Who or What is the Holy Spirit? Biblical, Rabbinic, Patristic, Medieval, and Modern Sources in Judaism and Christianity,” brought together leading Jewish and Christian scholars, under the leadership of Professor Adam Afterman of the Tel Aviv University, for two days of academic exchange and theological reflection. Participants explored one of the most profound themes shared by both traditions, demonstrating the continued vitality of scholarly dialogue in strengthening relationships between faith communities.
A special highlight of the gathering was the presence of Ms. Berrie herself, whose vision and commitment have sustained the fellowship program since its founding. For nearly twenty years, the program has formed a new generation of scholars, educators, clergy, and community leaders dedicated to fostering friendship and cooperation between Jews and Christians. Through study, dialogue, and collaborative projects, alumni of the program have become ambassadors of understanding in their own countries and institutions.
The commemorative volume presented to Pope Leo XIV reflects this remarkable legacy. Featuring essays by distinguished program leaders, biographies of fellows, photographs documenting almost two decades of activities, and accounts of projects developed by alumni worldwide, the book offers a testament to the enduring impact of the fellowship. It also includes a foreword by Rabbi Jack Bemporad, Founder and Director of the John Paul II Center and Fr. Thomas Joseph White, Rector of the Angelicum, who reflect on the program’s unique contribution to Jewish-Christian dialogue and academic friendship.
