April 4, 2005
From Jewish to Muslim, experts said Pope John Paul II made an effort throughout his papacy to meet with many different religious leaders. In fact, the Pontiff was the first Pope ever to go into a mosque and the first bishop of Rome to go to a synagogue there.
"With Non-Christian religions, he's especially reached out to the Jewish community and to the Muslim community," said UVA Professor of Religious Studies, Gerald Fogerty.
"That's been interesting lately is how many Muslim leaders have talked about that."
Experts also add that the Pope's desire to touch so many different religions was also his push towards common peace.
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