In a historic and deeply symbolic moment, Pope Leo XIV visited the Great Mosque in Algiers, where he joined Muslim leaders in a prayerful encounter focused on peace, fraternity, and mutual respect between religions.

The gathering drew international attention as Christian and Muslim representatives stood together in a gesture many observers described as a powerful message of dialogue in a world often marked by division and extremism. Pope Leo XIV praised the importance of interreligious understanding, declaring that believers must work together to defend human dignity and reject violence carried out in the name of faith.

“Authentic religion never teaches hatred,” the Pope said during the encounter. “Faith should open hearts to peace, compᴀssion, and solidarity among peoples.” Muslim leaders welcomed the visit as a historic sign of friendship and coexistence between communities.

The event included moments of silence, shared reflections on peace, and discussions about cooperation in humanitarian efforts, education, and youth engagement. Vatican officials noted that the visit to the mosque was one of the most symbolic moments of Pope Leo XIV’s trip to Algeria.

Observers say the encounter reflects the Pope’s broader effort to strengthen Christian-Muslim relations and encourage dialogue across cultures and religions at a time of growing global tension and polarization.