In a recent meeting with participants of the 26th Pauline Ecumenical Colloquium, Pope Francis urged Biblical scholars to place their confidence in God's promises as a foundational element for nurturing ecumenical dialogue.

He commended the valuable work of an ecumenical group of scholars dedicated to the study of St. Paul's scriptural letters, highlighting their significant contribution in facilitating encounters among diverse Christians who find unity through the wisdom of Pauline teachings.

During his address to the Colloquium participants, the Holy Father emphasized the importance of rigorous and scholarly exegetical exchanges among academics, which reveal the beauty of St. Paul's letters and their relevance to Christian and ecclesial life. Pope Francis described this initiative as both courageous, as it overcomes defensive barriers, and prophetic, as it fosters a healthy "impatience of the Spirit" to achieve full unity and a commitment to bearing witness.

The Pope acknowledged the historical suffering caused by divisions and emphasized the need to redirect efforts towards unity and fraternity. He underscored the significance of starting this journey through prayer, study, and collaborative work.

Specifically addressing the focus of the Colloquium on chapters 9-11 of St. Paul's Letter to the Romans, Pope Francis highlighted the "irrevocable" gifts and call of God mentioned in Romans 11:29. He emphasized that St. Paul's message here conveys a fundamental truth: "God does not fail in His promises of salvation and patiently fulfills them, even through unexpected and surprising means."

Pope Francis expressed his support for the Colloquium's work, rooted in the confidence in "the mercy and promises of God." He encouraged the scholars to continue their fraternal and academic dialogues while inviting them, above all else, to be inspired by the countless spiritual resources found in the Pauline letters. These resources, he explained, can offer Christian communities "new words" to communicate the Father's merciful goodness, Christ's transformative salvation, and the Spirit's renewing hope.

Concluding his address, Pope Francis expressed hope that the Colloquium's efforts would promote an ecumenical spirit among believers, serving as an aid to their common journey in seeking the Lord.