Molloy University, in partnership with the American Jewish Committee (AJC) Long Island, hosted “Celebrating Catholic–Jewish Relations and Nostra Aetate 60 Years Later” on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, in the Madison Theatre.
The event commemorated the 60th anniversary of Nostra Aetate, the historic declaration issued by the Roman Catholic Church during the Second Vatican Council in 1965. The document marked a profound transformation in Catholic teaching by rejecting antisemitism and laying the foundation for a new era of dialogue and mutual respect between Catholics and Jews.
Molloy University President, James Lentini emphasized the university’s mission-driven role in hosting the event.
“Nostra Aetate remains one of the most consequential statements on interreligious understanding in modern history,” said Lentini. “At Molloy University, we believe it is essential to foster spaces where difficult history is confronted honestly, faith traditions engage one another respectfully, and dialogue leads to deeper human connection. The program reflected our Catholic identity and our commitment to education rooted in truth, justice, and reconciliation.”
The program featured a conversation between two nationally recognized leaders in interfaith relations: Rabbi Noam Marans, Director of Interreligious Affairs for the American Jewish Committee, and Rev. Walter F. Kedjierski of the Diocese of Rockville Centre. Their discussion explored the lasting impact of Nostra Aetate over the past six decades and its relevance in confronting contemporary challenges, including rising antisemitism and religious polarization.
"AJC Long Island is proud to partner with Molloy University to delve into the history of Catholic-Jewish relations and chart a course for further strengthening ties on Long Island,” said Eric Post, AJC Long Island Regional Director. “Gathering on International Holocaust Remembrance Day is especially meaningful as we work together to never forget the six million Jewish victims of the Holocaust and the millions of other victims of Nazi persecution."
Held on International Holocaust Remembrance Day, the discussion examined the role the Holocaust played in shaping the Church’s postwar reassessment of its relationship with the Jewish people and the moral imperatives that emerged from that reckoning.
“Sixty years after Nostra Aetate, its call for mutual respect and understanding is as urgent as ever,” said Edward J. Thompson, Molloy University Vice President for Advancement. “At a time when antisemitism and religious intolerance are once again on the rise, bringing Catholic and Jewish voices together for honest conversation is not only meaningful — it is necessary. This event honored how far we have come, and challenges us to continue working together for a more just and compassionate society.”
The program also included remarks from Congressman Nick LaLota and Congressman Tom Suozzi, both Catholic members of Long Island’s Congressional delegation. They reflected on their relationships with the Jewish community, Catholic–Jewish relations on Long Island, and the role of elected officials in ensuring that diverse communities remain safe, respected, and free to flourish.