Cardinal Grzegorz Ryś in an interview for TVN24 addressed the theological issues related to the relation of the Catholic Church to Judaism. He emphasized that Israel inactive remains a chosen nation, because, as he pointed out, God's election is irrevocable. The discussion besides addressed the question of the salvation of Jews and their place in the plan of salvation, and besides referred to the situation of Poles in a spiritual context.
The priest referred to a fresh letter from the Polish Episcopal Conference prepared on the occasion of the anniversary of John Paul II's visit to the Roman synagogue. He pointed out that the contents contained in it were not news, but reflected the teaching of the Church developed consistently since the Second Vatican Council. He besides pointed to the continuity of this teaching – from the declaration “Nostra aetate”, through the statements of subsequent popes to contemporary documents.
In their letter, the bishops remind us that Jews stay loved by God, who did not undo his covenant. It was stressed that Israel inactive has a peculiar place in the past of salvation as a chosen nation. The faithful were besides encouraged to give gestures of remembrance and dialogue, specified as visiting synagogues or gathering with representatives of the judaic community, and to pray in which they expressed hope for full redemption for this people.
The paper at the same time points out that the question of the salvation of Jews without a clear confession of religion in Christ remains a mystery of God. Although the Church believes that the origin of the salvation of all men is the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, the way this relates to the judaic nation is not full known.
Cardinal Ryś emphasized that recognizing Israel as a chosen nation does not mean there is simply a separate way of salvation. He pointed out that the Episcopal letter does not concern the detailed explanation of the mechanics of salvation, but indicates a appropriate attitude towards Jews – based on respect, memory and dialogue.
In the conversation there was besides a question about the peculiar function of Poles. Hierarch answered that in a spiritual sense all men are chosen by Christ, which is simply a universal calling, not a discrimination of 1 nation over another.
Comment: The tv station in which Cardinal Ryś appeared shows what media environments this man feels best in. Fear to fear what will happen to our Homeland if the hierarchy of the Catholic Church continues to search an alliance between mainstream and the altar.
