UCC GMP Releases Statement on Pope Francis
Pope Francis died early in the morning on Easter Monday, April 21, after suffering a stroke that caused ‘irreversible heart failure.’ As the world mourns the passing of the Pope, UCC General Minister and President Rev. Karen Georgia Thompson released a statement to the church, calling Pope Francis a ‘Leader among Leaders.’ Read her full statement below.
“… he will wipe every tear from their eyes.
Death will be no more;
mourning and crying and pain will be no more,
for the first things have passed away.” Rev. 21:5
The United Church of Christ joins with the global community in mourning the death of Pope Francis and grieving his absence from among us. On this Easter Monday, in the shadows of the resurrection, we join in celebrating his life and commending his soul to eternal rest. His ministry among us was one of simplicity and example, a life of courage in the face of emerging issues requiring the attention of the church. His life was lived in following the example of Jesus.
The ministry of Pope Francis brought compassion and care to the world before he became the Bishop of Rome. He believed and lived an inclusive Christianity that made room for God’s people to be present and loved, and was known for his ministry to the poor and those in need. His was a life of witness and justice which prepared him for answering the call to serve as the first Bishop of Rome from the Americas and the first Jesuit to lead the Roman Catholic Church. Pope Francis was a leader among leaders, one who understood and supported the commitment to the unity of the church by ensuring the ecumenical engagements of the church were experienced and lived – locally and globally.
His legacy will continue among us, memories of the decisions he made and the ways in which he moved the church to right the wrongs committed to indigenous people and others marginalized by the teachings of the church. We give God thanks for his ministry and for his life, given in service to the church and to God’s people.
We extend our condolences to the church family and to those who were family and friends to Pope Francis. We pray for our siblings across the Roman Catholic Church during this time of deep loss. May the peace and comfort of the God of the Resurrection be with them as they find their way through pain and uncertainty, to hope and joy. We pray for the leaders of the church as they provide care for the people and inspire hope for the journey ahead. We pray for the cardinals and for their discernment as they gather to select a new leader for the church. We pray that the power of the Holy Spirit lead, guide and direct their deliberations. We live in hope for a time when death and sorrow will be no more.
Holy God, in time of sorrow you are present, providing peace and comfort through the pain and grief of loss. We pray that your strength will be experienced in the days ahead as these your children navigate this new road unfolding before them. Hold them in your tender care and dry the tears from their eyes. Provide healing from the loss of this great leader. We give thanks for the life of Pope Francis and commend his soul to your care. We pray in the name of Christ. Amen.
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