WORCESTER, Mass., Sept. 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Assumption University is excited to hold the annual Rabbi Joseph Klein Lecture on Tuesday, September 30, at 6 p.m. This free event, open to everyone, will take place in the Curtis Performance Hall, followed by a reception.
This year’s lecture, titled “Catholic-Jewish Friendship: 60 Years After Nostra Aetate,” will explore a significant Vatican II document that changed how the Catholic Church engages in interfaith dialogue. Sponsored by Assumption’s Center for Civic Friendship and the Jewish Federation of Central Massachusetts (JFCM), the event promises to spark meaningful discussions.
Rabbi Meir Soloveichik, a leading voice in Jewish thought and interfaith engagement, will speak at the event. He serves as the Senior Rabbi at Congregation Shearith Israel in Manhattan, the oldest Jewish congregation in the U.S. He’s known for his insightful perspectives on religious freedom.
Joining him will be Dr. Matthew Tapie, an Associate Professor of Theology at Saint Leo University in Florida. Dr. Tapie specializes in Catholic-Jewish relations and has extensively researched religious pluralism and reconciliation. His insights are particularly relevant today as society grapples with diverse beliefs and the need for respectful dialogue.
Mary Jane Rein, director of the Center for Civic Friendship, emphasized the importance of events like this: “The Rabbi Klein Lecture has a rich legacy of fostering conversations about enduring theological and sociological questions. We are excited to welcome the greater Worcester community for this dialogue, promoting understanding and shared progress.”
The Center for Civic Friendship, which started in 2024, believes in open idea exchange and respectful disagreement. Its inaugural event last year brought together experts to discuss civic friendship after the 2024 presidential election, highlighting the ongoing relevance of these discussions.
Assumption University, founded in 1904, is committed to high-quality education that nurtures intellectual growth and civic responsibility. With 37 majors and 49 minors across various fields, the university prepares its graduates to contribute thoughtfully to society.
In today’s fast-paced world, events that promote interfaith dialogue are essential. Recent studies show that nearly 70% of Americans value understanding diverse perspectives in their communities. As we celebrate 60 years since Nostra Aetate, this lecture will not only reflect on past achievements but also challenge participants to envision a future of deeper connections across faiths.
For further details, visit Assumption University’s official page or follow them on social media @AssumptionUMA.
Contact:
Olivia Boudreau
Public Relations Specialist
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 508-767-7110
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