In a strong appeal for interfaith cooperation, Pope Leo on Monday urged Christians and Muslims to work together to “revive humanity where it has grown cold” and to replace global indifference with solidarity.
He made these remarks during a meeting with participants of an interfaith colloquium organised by Jordan’s Royal Institute for Inter-Faith Studies and the Holy See’s Dicastery for Interreligious Dialogue. The gathering focused on the theme “Human Compassion and Empathy in Modern Times.”
“Compassion is Central to Both Faiths,” Says Pope
Addressing religious leaders and scholars, Pope Leo stressed that compassion is a core value shared by both Christianity and Islam.
“In the Muslim tradition, compassion is a divine gift placed in the hearts of believers, and the name ‘Al-Ra’uf’ reminds us that compassion originates from God,” he said.
He added that in Christianity, compassion becomes visible through Jesus Christ, who represents “the living embodiment of compassion” by sharing human suffering.
Call to Help the Poor and Refugees
The Pope also highlighted the moral responsibility of believers to care for the poor and vulnerable. He specifically appreciated Jordan’s efforts in hosting refugees, calling them a “generous contribution” to humanity.
“Love for the poor and sharing in their suffering is not optional for Christians,” he said, extending the spirit of responsibility across faiths.
Warning on Technology and Emotional Numbness
Pope Leo also raised concerns about how modern technology is affecting human empathy. He noted that while people are more connected than ever, constant exposure to suffering through digital media may actually reduce emotional sensitivity.
“We are seeing more images of suffering than ever before, but instead of compassion, it can lead to indifference,” he warned, echoing earlier remarks by Pope Francis about emotional fatigue in the digital age.
"Il flusso costante di immagini e video delle difficoltà degli altri può rendere i nostri cuori insensibili piuttosto che commuoverli", ha detto il #Papa. "Questo genere di apatia sta diventando una delle sfide spirituali più serie del nostro tempo". pic.twitter.com/s5PrxkT0Vq
— Vatican News (@vaticannews_it) May 11, 2026Also Read“Sanatan Should Be Eradicated”: DMK Leader Udhayanidhi Stalin Reignites Row in Tamil Nadu Assembly
He said many people today feel that the suffering of others “does not concern me” or “is not my responsibility,” which he described as a dangerous mindset.
“Transform Indifference into Solidarity”
Concluding his address, Pope Leo called on Christians and Muslims to join hands in addressing global suffering.
He said both faiths carry a “rich spiritual heritage” that should be used for a shared mission.
“We are called to revive humanity where it has grown cold, to give voice to those who suffer, and to transform indifference into solidarity,” the Pope said, urging interfaith unity in an increasingly divided world.
