Pope Francis

Dear Pope Francis,

You have fought the good fight, you have finished your race. Thank you. We who loved you mourn your passing today. From the moment you took the name ‘Franciscus’ till your last blessing of the city and the world, you taught us. You taught us by your words and especially by your symbolic actions. You called us to return to our hearts and to hear the cry of the poor and of the Earth. You showed us that we are “all brothers and sisters” and you went to the ends of the earth and washed the feet of prisoners to remind us.  You were ready to listen and to dialogue with people who did not share your faith or your views, or who disapproved of your ways. You were able to admit your mistakes and say “sorry”.  You wanted a Church of missionary disciples that forgives, that listens, has compassion, and moves forward together, believing that the Holy Spirit speaks to us especially through those on the periphery.  You loved simplicity, you bore your cross courageously, and shared with us The Joy of Love and The Joy of the Gospel.

May The Lord invite you ‘this day’ to share with Him in the Joy of His Resurrection.

An IJS pilgrim on the way.