Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher speaks at Religions and Diplomacy conference

Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher spoke at a Religions and Diplomacy conference in Rome on September 29, stating that religious communities can help ease tensions between peoples by speaking to consciences. Gallagher, the Secretary for Relations with States and International Organizations, noted that the current international order is facing one of its most severe tests since the end of World War II.

During the meeting at Palazzo San Calisto, organized by the International Association Carità Politica to mark its 30th anniversary, Gallagher warned that faith must not be used as a political or national banner, which would turn worship into a tool for division. He suggested that in a multipolar world, religious influence has shifted rather than receded, and this should be acknowledged with realism rather than viewed as a security problem.

Cardinal Baldassare Reina also addressed the conference, calling for a disarmament of language to remove the name of God from the logic of war. The speakers emphasized the importance of religious freedom and human dignity while rejecting the use of faith to justify conflict. The three-day gathering concluded on September 30.