It is important to know that with the Jewish people in particular, interreligious dialogue has a unique character. While the Jews are not Christians and do not share creeds, Sacraments, or ecclesial structure with the Catholic Church, they are our spiritual forefathers. This “family connection” enriches our dialogue with the Jewish people. It gives us more points of connection than with any other non-Christian faith and in turn enhances our ability to achieve the primary goals of our dialogue with them: to grow in respect for one another, to strengthen our common witness on issues of peace and justice, and to deepen in mutual contemplation of God’s providential plan for man’s salvation.