MILWAUKEE — Marquette University is hosting a collection of photographs of Papal visits to Israel, to create dialogue and understanding on campus.
“Building Bridges of Faith: A Photographic Exhibit of Papal Visits to Israel” is on display at the Marquette University Raynor Library, second floor, through Nov. 11.
The exhibit and, in particular, Pope Francis’ time in Israel, demonstrate “friendship and true brotherhood,” said Itay Milner, deputy consulate general of Israel for Chicago, speaking at a reception marking the opening at the library.
He said Pope Frances’ visit was “most special” because the pope visited the Auschwitz death camp in Poland on July 29, 2016 and “finally, Israelis saw the Church as their brothers.”
“He represents what your university represents,” he added.
Marquette President Michael R. Lovell said the exhibit would deliver a message to students: “They really need to understand their peers.”
“Marquette is very interested in interfaith dialogue,” said Janice S. Welburn, dean of libraries. “We hope that these photos will help us have dialogue on our campus.”
One photo is of Pope Francis kissing the hand of a Holocaust survivor at Yad Vashem, the Israeli Holocaust museum, in 2014. Another features Francis embracing former President Shimon Peres at Ben Gurion International Airport.
The 24 images on display come from a 44 photo traveling collection that depicts stirring scenes as well as quiet and intimate moments during visits to Israel by some of the most well-traveled popes in history: Blessed Pope Paul VI, Pope Saint John Paul II, Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI and Pope Francis.