The blowing of the shofar, traditionally done on Rosh Hashanah. Photo: Wikimedia Commons.

The World Council of Churches (WCC) penned an open letter on Thursday to Jews around the world ahead of the Jewish holiday of Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year which begins next week.

“Let the Shofar resonate for forgiveness, healing, and peace in these turbulent times. May the New Year 5785 be the beginning of a blessed, just, and peaceful time for humanity,” wrote Rev. Prof. Dr Jerry Pillay, the general secretary of the World Council of Churches, on behalf of the WCC, which is a fellowship of 352 churches from more than 120 countries that represents over 580 million Christians worldwide.

Pillay also showed appreciation to the WCC‘s Jewish partners and the “meaningful dialogue” it continues to have with the International Jewish Committee for Interreligious Consultations. 

“This dialogue serves not merely as a channel for mutual understanding, but as a blessed conduit through which we pursue the peace that is essential for humanity,” Pillay said. “It reflects a commitment to justice, reconciliation, and unity in the shared responsibility of all faiths to promote the well-being of the world. As we stand on the threshold of a new year, may this journey deepen, shaping a future grounded in compassion and peace.”

Pillay concluded his letter by saying, “Tizku Leshanim Rabbot to all Jewish people all over the world!” incorporating the Hebrew phrase that means “May you merit many good years.”