Scottish Catholic Observer

“In the past, most wars were motivated by the idea of nationhood. Today, however, wars are incited above all using religion as an excuse,” Mr Peres (above left) said in an interview ahead of meeting the Holy Father.

Fr Federico Lombardi, a Vatican spokesman, confirmed that Mr Peres, who ended his presidential term in July, had requested the meeting and told the pope about his idea. The Pope, however, did not commit himself to the proposal.

‘The Pope listened’ to the idea just as he always does with any peace initiative, ‘showing his interest, his attention and encouragement,’ Fr Lombardi said. However ‘the Pope made no personal commitment’ and reminded MrPeres that the Vatican has the Pontifical Councils for Interreligious Dialogue and for Justice and Peace—two offices ‘that are suitable’ for supporting or following such initiatives, Fr Lombardi added

The Vatican spokesman went on to says that the Pope’s meeting with Mr Peres lasted an unusually long 45 minutes, reflecting the Pontiff’s ‘esteem and appreciation’ for Mr Peres, whom he earlier praised as a ‘man of peace.’

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