Rome chief rabbi sends pope greetings

(ANSA) - Rome, April 17 - Rome's chief rabbi, Riccardo Di Segni, on Thursday wished Pope Francis a happy Easter ahead of the canonization of popes John XXIII and John Paul II on April 27.
    "You will soon honor two great popes, who effected positive change in the church's relations with Judaism, and this is a sign of hope for everyone", wrote Di Segni, who had a cordial relationship with the late Karol Wojtyla and attended his funeral in April 2005.
    "The ancient feast of spring, to which our traditions have added historical and religious significance, is a time for renewal and reflection on our duty in this world", added the chief rabbi.
    "The frequent overlapping of our holidays is a call to share our common values".
    Referring to Francis' upcoming pilgrimage to the Holy Land, Di Segni also said that "our prayer is that you may make a significant contribution to a political and religious peace".
    The pope will visit Jordan, Palestine and Israel from May 24-26.
    Francis sent his best wishes to the chief rabbi and to Rome's Jewish community when Passover began, on April 14.
    http://popefrancisnewsapp.com/