A delegation of approximately 170 foreigners is scheduled to arrive at the Vatican for Pope Francis’ funeral on Saturday.
Among the world leaders present are US President Donald Trump, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, and French President Emmanuel Macron.
The congregation also features the chief rabbis of Rome Riccardo di Segni.
“I have had many opportunities to meet Pope Francis in a formal and informal environment,” Rabbi di Seguni told Euroneus.
“In each of them, it was possible to establish personal connections beyond the procedures. I have always appreciated his availability and warmth.”
He acknowledges that their relationship is not without disagreement, but Rabbi di Seguni emphasized the importance of open respect in any dialogue.
“There were times when we didn’t agree, but that’s part of the dialogue,” he said.
“To have a dialogue means having different opinions. Otherwise, it’s just rhetoric. Most importantly, there’s mutual respect and willingness to listen.”
The funeral falls to Shabat, so in line with Jewish tradition, the rabbis walk to the ceremony instead of traveling by car.
The divergent view of the war in Gaza has sometimes had a tense relationship between the Vatican and Israel. However, the Vatican Israeli ambassador is expected to represent the country at funerals.
On Thursday, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed his sadness to the Catholic community for Pope Francis’ death, but he is not expected to attend the Pope’s funeral.
