The prism through which many haters have historically seen others is theological bigotry. In the Western world, where Christianity has been the dominant faith for generations, Christian teaching ­ along with the attitudes

Theological bigotry is the prism through which many haters see others.

and practices of church leaders ­ has too often provided the soil in which anti-Semitic beliefs and actions have taken root.

Counteracting this has been a major priority for ADL. While accepting the fact of fundamental differences of faith between Jews and Christians, ADL has fostered the concept that such differences should not be the cause of bigotry, but of friendly exchange. In this, the League has been joined by enlightened Christian leaders such as Pope John Paul II, whose papacy has been marked by numerous positive initiatives toward the Jewish community and Christian- Jewish dialogue. ADL is involved in many interfaith issues.