Pope Connects with Buddha

In this report, FOX NEWS reports on Pope Francis' trip to Sri Lanka:

 Pope Francis became the second pope to visit a Buddhist temple on Wednesday, changing his schedule at the last minute to pay his respects at an important place of worship in Sri Lanka's capital and to witness a key ritual for Buddhists: the opening of a casket of relics of two important disciples of the Buddha.

Francis listened respectfully as Buddhist monks chanted and prayed while opening the stupa, or casket, containing relics in the Agrashravaka Temple, the Vatican said.

Usually, the relics are only put on display once a year, and Buddhists from around Sri Lanka line up for days to pay homage to them since it is such a rare privilege.

According to the Buddhist Channel:

The Buddhists believe that these relics provide an opportunity to make a spiritual connection with Buddha. Viewing these sacred relics can inspire them to develop loving kindness and contribute to peace in the world.

Roman Catholicism has similar relic rituals.