Pope Francis wishes the Jewish community of Rome a happy Passover
"I ask you to continue to pray for me. Chag sameach."
By ROSSELLA TERCATINPope Francis waves as he arrives to lead his Wednesday general audience in Saint Peter's square at the Vatican June 28, 2017.(photo credit: REUTERS)
Pope Francis sent a message to the Chief Rabbi of Rome Riccardo Di Segni wishing him and the Jewish community a happy Passover, the Italian Jewish newspaper Pagine Ebraiche reported on Thursday.“At the eve of the Festival of Pesach, I wish to extend the most cordial and fraternal wishes to you and to the Jewish Community of Rome. May merciful God accompany you with his blessing and grant you peace and harmony,” the Pope wrote.“In renewing the bonds of friendship and the shared commitment to the needy in our society on this happy occasion, I assure you that you are in my thoughts and I ask you to continue to pray for me. Chag sameach,” he added, concluding his message with the traditional Hebrew expression to wish a happy holiday.Rabbi Di Segni reciprocated the wishes. “With Easter drawing near, I thank you and send you my cordial wishes for joy, tranquility and health, and for strengthening and beneficial relations of friendship and cooperation. May your prayers be accepted.”
