In Israel, Jews and Christians joined forces to plant a forest in memory of Cardinal Carlo Maria Martini. The project was suggested by Rabbi Joseph Lara, former chief rabbi of the Jewish community in Milan and a close friend of the Cardinal, who died last year.
On Sunday, 16 June 2013, the first tree of the new forest was planted near Lake Tiberius, Galilee–an area very symbolic for both Christians and Jews.
“Given that Cardinal Martini’s name will always be linked to Israel and to Jewish-Christian dialogue,” Rabbi Laras said, “it is hoped that this forest will be an important meeting point between Christians and Jews in our common journey toward peace.”