The John Paul II Center for Interreligious Dialogue

A Network of Leaders in Interreligious Dialogue

We aim to build bridges between Christian, Jewish, and other religious traditions by providing the next generation of religious leaders with a comprehensive understanding of, and dedication to, interfaith issues.

About Us

Established in 2008, The John Paul II Center for Interreligious Dialogue is made possible through the generosity of The Russell Berrie Foundation.

The John Paul II Center is a collaboration between The Russell Berrie Foundation, the Pontifical University of St. Thomas Aquinas also known as the Angelicum, and the Institute of International Education.

Based at the Angelicum in the heart of Rome, we support a global network of John Paul II Leaders.

Our Impact

The JPII Center has offered 133 Russell Berrie Fellowships at the Angelicum, supported over forty projects in dialogue and peacebuilding, and partnered with like-minded organizations and networks to amplify the impact of interfaith collaboration throughout the world.

In our work, we help emerging religious leaders further their knowledge of other religions, engage with people of different faiths, and actively promote interfaith dialogue in their communities.

  • 133
    JPII Leaders.

    JPII Leaders.

    A network of 133 Fellowship alumni, known as JPII Leaders, active in the field of dialogue all over the world.
  • 40
    Projects Funded.

    Projects Funded.

    Over 40 dialogue and bridge-building projects funded.

Events / News

  • Russell Berrie Fellowship

    From 2008-2022, 10 Russell Berrie Fellows were annually selected to study at the Angelicum and participate in rich and diverse extra-curricular activities connected to interreligious dialogue.

    Upon completion of their one-year fellowship, they became part of the Network of John Paul II Center Leaders in Interreligious Dialogue.

  • JPII Leaders Network

    Based in about 40 countries worldwide, JPII Leaders are clergy, women religious and lay leaders who are promoting peace and interfaith dialogue in their communities and parishes.

    JPII Leaders teach, educate, publish, engage in grassroots dialogue and build a culture of peace and encounter in their local communities.

Contact Us

If you have any questions about The John Paul II Center for Interreligious Dialogue, the fellowship, or the network, please feel free to reach out to us.