Conference at the Centre for Dialogue and Prayer in Oświęcim

The Centre for Dialogue and Prayer in Oświęcim gathered participants from different countries and religious backgrounds for a conference entitled“Seeking Paths of Faith Towards Peace.” The event commemorated the life and witness of St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross (Edith Stein), who was murdered in Auschwitz-Birkenau on August 9, 1942. The conference combined reflection, dialogue, remembrance, and prayer, focusing on the search for peace in today's world.

Among the invited speakers was Fr. Piotr Żelazko, Patriarchal Vicar for Hebrew Speaking Catholics in Israel. During his presentation, he reflected on the role of religious leaders in contemporary peacebuilding efforts, particularly in the context of the Holy Land. Drawing on his pastoral experience in Israel, Fr. Piotr emphasized that religious leaders have a unique responsibility to promote dialogue, mutual respect, and reconciliation among communities divided by conflict.

Speaking in a city marked by the memory of one of history's greatest tragedies, Fr. Piotr highlighted that authentic peace cannot be achieved solely through political agreements. Lasting peace begins with a recognition of the dignity of every human person and requires the willingness to listen to the suffering and hopes of others. Religious communities, he noted, can contribute significantly by fostering encounters, building trust, and encouraging people to reject hatred and violence.

The conference was opened by Fr. Dariusz Chrostowski, Director of the Centre for Dialogue and Prayer, who recalled that Edith Stein's life and death continue to challenge humanity with questions about human dignity, responsibility, faith, and peace. Referring to the conference theme, he emphasized that participants were not claiming to possess all the answers, but rather were united in a common search for paths leading toward peace.

Other speakers included representatives of the Edith Stein House in Wrocław and members of the Polish Council of Christians and Jews, who shared reflections on Edith Stein's legacy and on interreligious cooperation in the service of peace.

The gathering was followed by a prayer walk along the railway ramp at Auschwitz-Birkenau and a solemn Mass celebrated in the Carmelite monastery in Oświęcim. Participants prayed for peace in Europe, the Middle East, and throughout the world, remembering all victims of war, violence, and hatred.

The Centre for Dialogue and Prayer was founded as a place of encounter, reflection, education, and prayer for those touched by the history of Auschwitz. Through conferences, retreats, educational initiatives, and interreligious dialogue, it continues to promote understanding between peoples, cultures, and religions.

Fr. Piotr's participation in the conference reflected the commitment of the Vicariate of St. James to fostering dialogue and cooperation among different communities in the Holy Land. His contribution offered a perspective rooted in the daily realities of the region and reaffirmed the conviction that faith can become a powerful instrument for reconciliation and peace.