A Universal Light: Honoring the Legacy of Pope Francis

From the Pastor

Proverbs 31:8–9 “Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves... defend the rights of the poor and needy.” 

 

A Universal Light: Honoring the Legacy of Pope Francis 

Summary: As we mourn the death of Pope Francis, we remember his deep compassion for the poor, his call to care for the earth, and his enduring impact on the global Christian community.

This week Pastor Anny is on vacation, so Deacon Joanie Cahill+ brings you this message.

Have you seen the movie Conclave? If not, now is the time!

Today we mourn the passing of Pope Francis who was beloved by millions of people around the world. Francis brought a burst of light and love into the Vatican with his arrival and many hope that his follower will continue his work.

Pope Francis heard the cries of the poor and the cries of the earth. Indeed, he may be remembered historically for his encyclical Laudato si’. In this letter, he combines striking and at times poetic theological reflections on the importance of care for the natural world with calls for radical political action.

He exhorts us to ensure that growth is promoted in tandem with other things of value, including the natural world, human culture, the poor and vulnerable and animal life. A stunning plea from a world leader.

The word “catholic” means “universal”. In the beginning, the Catholic Church was the universal church. Anglicans, and later Episcopalians came to be after the reformation in 1517, when the Catholic Church became Roman Catholic, (led by the pope in Rome,) and other branches broke off. We still pray weekly for the catholic (small c) church, meaning the community of Christian believers throughout the world.

And indeed, today we pray for Pope Francis, a man of God, may he rest in peace.

Deacon Joanie+