Let us care for creation, Pope tells Jains

June 01, 2016

Pope Francis received representatives of the Institute of Jainology of London on June 1 and emphasized the importance of caring for creation as for a mother or sister, “with tenderness and with peace.”

Adherents of Jainism, an ancient Indian religion, emphasize non-violence, reject the idea of a Creator, and believe in the eternity of the universe.

“Creation is the mirror of God, it is the mirror of the Creator, it is the mirror of nature, of all nature, it is the life of nature and also our mirror,” the Pope said to the representatives, who had gathered in Paul VI Audience Hall.

On the previous day, representative of the Institute of Jainology and the Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue met for the third time since 1995 and discussed the topic “taking care of the earth, the home of the human family.”

 

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Further information:

• Udienza ai Rappresentanti dell’ “Institute of Jainology” (Holy See Press Office)
• Comunicato: Incontro fra la Delegazione giainista e il Pontificio Consiglio per il Dialogo Interreligioso (Vaticano, 31 maggio 2016)