(Photo: Diocese of Westminster)
The Catholic community worldwide mourns the loss of Pope Francis, whose passing at 7:35am on Easter Monday left a void in the advocacy for the poor and marginalized. Just a day after delivering an Easter blessing at St Peter’s Square, the Vatican confirmed that the Pope succumbed to heart failure and a stroke.
Cardinal Vincent Nichols, head of the Catholic Church in England and Wales, expressed profound sorrow over the Pope’s death, emphasizing the impact of his absence on global communities. He highlighted the responsibility of the faithful to perpetuate Pope Francis’s mission of mercy and compassion.
“A voice proclaiming the innate dignity of every human being, especially those who are poor or marginalised, is now silent. The legacy he leaves is one we must seek to carry forward and strengthen,” stated Cardinal Nichols.
Cardinal Nichols reflected on Pope Francis’s journey to priesthood, inspired by divine mercy and compassion, which became the essence of his service as a Priest, Bishop, and Pontiff. He underscored the Pope’s vision of creating societies that embody the ‘kingdom of God’ through understanding God’s love and mercy.
The Cardinal noted that Pope Francis’s emphasis on “missionary discipleship” was central to his desire for Church membership to be active and dynamic, encouraging every Christian and community to engage in this vision.
“Now we pray for the repose of his soul, that he may know, in full measure, the merciful and loving embrace of the Father, of the one God to whom he gave his life in unstinting service,” said Nichols, adding, “May he now rest in peace and rise in glory.”
In anticipation of his funeral on Saturday, Catholic cathedrals and churches throughout the nation have opened their doors for mourners to offer prayers and light candles in his memory.
This article was originally written by www.christiantoday.com
