# Christianity is impossible without Judaism, says Cardinal Koch

> Vatican marks 60 years of Nostra aetate with new document on Jewish-Christian relations.
- Title: Christianity is impossible without Judaism, says Cardinal Koch
- Summary: Vatican marks 60 years of Nostra aetate with new document on Jewish-Christian relations. Being a disciple of Christ and an antisemite at the same time is…
- Keywords: cardinal kurt koch, nostra aetate, second vatican council, jewish-christian dialogue, antisemitism, dicastery for promoting christian unity, vatican, judaism, middle east, gaza, israel, palestine
- Source: Vaticannews — https://vaticannews.va/en/vatican-city/news/2026-09/nostra-aetate-60th-koovakad-interview-path-of-hope.html
- Author: Vatican News
- Published: 2026-09-16T10:17:22.738+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: cardinal kurt koch, nostra aetate, second vatican council, jewish-christian dialogue, antisemitism, dicastery for promoting christian unity, vatican, judaism, middle east, gaza, israel, palestine
## 60 years of Jewish dialogue
Three Vatican departments released "A Journey of Hope" to mark the 60th anniversary of Nostra aetate, the declaration on interfaith relations.
## Judaism is Christianity's foundation
The Catholic Church cannot understand itself without reference to Judaism. Nostra aetate calls this a "common spiritual patrimony" that must be kept alive.

> the relationship with the people of Israel, the people of the Covenant, is an integral part of the Catholic Church's self-understanding
## Gaza conflict strains dialogue
Christians face painful tension between their bond with Jewish people and ethical obligations toward Gaza's civilian victims. The Vatican supports a two-state solution.

> Many bridges of communication have wavered
## Keep talking through conflict
Even during difficult times marked by conflicts, it's essential not to let dialogue break down. The Church works for peace for both Israeli and Palestinian peoples.

> Even in these difficult times, marked by conflicts and misunderstandings, it is necessary to continue the momentum of this precious dialogue of ours.
## You can't be Christian and antisemitic
Judaism is the mother soil from which Christianity sprang. It's impossible to be a disciple of Jesus Christ and an antisemite at the same time.

> it is impossible to be a disciple of Jesus Christ and, at the same time, an antisemite
## Key takeaway

Being a disciple of Christ and an antisemite at the same time is impossible, according to Catholic teaching.