The Pope denounced the persecution of any minority group “because of their religious convictions or ethnic identity.” He specifically singled out the suffering of many Christians around the world, living under the threat of persecution. Pope Francis then called for a culture of encounter and respect.  

“To combat every form of racism, intolerance and anti-Semitism, to keep alive the memory of the Shoah, and to promote mutual understanding through education and commitment to the good of society," the pointiff said.

The Pope also asked the delegation to get young people involved and educated. He said it's important to teach youth to work together and to “reject walls and build bridges.”