The course adopted a multidimensional approach, layering workshops with talks at academic institutions, visits to religious sites, and moments of celebration and spirituality.
In the classroom, Jewish and Christian teachers from Italy, Spain, Columbia and Canada led sessions on history and culture, religious creeds and traditions, biblical interpretations, and art. Throughout the programme, much time was reserved for exchange and reflection on the relationship between the Christian and Jewish faiths and life.
Some more difficult conversations drew attention to the discourse of rejection of Jews fostered in Christianity for centuries. The attendees were invited to look at Scripture with different eyes and seek interpretations that foster peace, dialogue and inclusion in the present day.
The discoveries made in the study sessions were consolidated by excursions and guided visits, including tours of the four Major Papal Basilicas, the Roman Catacombs, and the Jewish quarter, known as the “Ghetto”, with its synagogue and museum.
The participants, from Argentina, Costa Rica, Mexico and Nicaragua, were surprised by much of what they learned: for instance, the references and symbols hidden in art. They were enriched by the new vision they gained of the Lord’s prayer read from a Jewish perspective in a presentation delivered, according to one participant, with “wisdom, humility, and incredible tenderness”.
For many of the participants, the combination of study and visits to religious sites was one of the most significant aspects of the course. “It opened my mind to other realities,” said Isaías, “which until now I’d only seen in letters or books.”
“It was a wonderful growing experience for me,” wrote Patricia. “The visit to the temples, contemplating the history and lives of so many men and women with their lights and shadows.”
“The visit and explanation of the Great Synagogue and the Jewish Museum contributed to understanding the arrival of Judaism in Rome and its influence on the nascent Christianity,” said Rocío.
Unanimous appreciation was expressed of what one participant called “the mystical experience of encounter that united us”, referring to the relationship that grew during the ten days among the group, including the organisers, Sr Margaret Zdunich and Sion Associate David Castillo.
“I learned a lot from gestures of solidarity, joy, questioning, energy, concern, dynamism and dedication,” said Marta.
“Sharing with other people was very enriching: listening to their opinions, their doubts, feeling their solidarity,” commented Mirian. “It’s the best testimony of the values that Jesus taught us. This is something that helps me to grow and keep the hope that we human beings can help to build the kingdom of God here and now.”
The course was organised in collaboration between two Sion study centres: CERJUC in Costa Rica and CBF in Jerusalem. Details about the next CERJUC-CBF programme in Spanish, planned for 2026, will appear on the CBF website, the CERJUC Facebook page, and the Learn with us page of this website.