On Sunday, January 18th, in Paris, the 51st Scriptural Sharing, organised by Dialogue and Alliance CC (Federation for Universal Peace), brought together speakers from different religious traditions to reflect on a central theme: Altruism, understood as “living for one another” as a pathway towards reconciling the human family.
Moderated by Soraya Ayouche, the event formed part of a series dedicated to the Five Principles of Ambassadors for Peace and offered Jewish, Christian, and Scientology perspectives on commitment to others.
The Methodist Pastor Virgile Amah Dosseh-Adjanon, drawing on the parable of the Good Samaritan, emphasised that altruism lies at the very heart of Christian faith. In the Methodist tradition, it is seen as a concrete sign of God’s presence within the individual and is expressed through active faith, social holiness and engagement for justice, particularly in support of the most vulnerable.
Michel Raoust, representing Scientology, highlighted the concept of true help as a fundamental moral criterion. Genuine help, he explained, is measured by its results rather than intentions and should lead to real improvement in people’s lives and in society. Altruism was presented as both a spiritual path and a practical contribution to social progress.
The Rabbi Dov Lellouche offered a reflection on compassion and empathy as foundational human qualities rooted in creation itself. He stressed personal responsibility, the importance of education and the refusal to judge others, reminding participants that kindness remains the most appropriate response to the complexity of the world.
Discussions with the audience explored the instinctive, educational and spiritual dimensions of altruism, as well as the challenges it faces in increasingly individualistic societies.
Beyond religious differences, the event highlighted a shared conviction: altruism is a universal language and a key driver of peace, solidarity and human cohesion.
