The Pacific Conference of Churches (PCC) has expressed profound sorrow at the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis, who died on Easter Sunday at the age of 88. In a tribute shared on social media, the PCC conveyed its condolences and solidarity with the Catholic community both in the Pacific and worldwide. The statement echoed sentiments from various leaders, including those from Fiji and the Northern Marianas Islands, who reflected on the significant impact and legacy of the Pope’s leadership.
The PCC joined others in praising Pope Francis as the “Pope of the Peripheries,” noting his unwavering commitment to social and ecological justice, compassion, and inclusion for the world’s most vulnerable populations. His advocacy for marginalized groups resonated deeply in the Pacific region, where leaders highlighted his ability to connect with people from all walks of life. Archbishop Peter Loy Chong from Fiji narrated experiences during the Pope’s visit, emphasizing his engaging demeanor and how his presence brought joy and hope to many, even as he faced health challenges.
Messages of condolence have been widespread, with many recalling the late Pope as a humble and spiritually dedicated leader who championed peace and interfaith dialogue. His 2013 election marked a historic moment as he became the first non-European Pope in over 1,200 years and the first from the Southern Hemisphere.
Pope Francis’s approachability and focus on pressing social issues transformed public perception of the Church, positioning it as a compassionate community actively addressing modern challenges such as poverty and climate change. His sense of humor and ability to connect personally with individuals, conveyed through gestures of warmth and kindness, left a lasting impression on those who met him.
As tributes continue to emerge worldwide, the PCC called for prayers for both Pope Francis’s soul and for the Catholic community as they navigate this period of mourning. There is a shared hope that his teachings and legacy will continue to inspire efforts towards compassion and inclusivity, encouraging individuals and communities to uplift one another, especially in challenging times.
This moment offers the opportunity not just to remember the Pope’s life but to reaffirm the values he championed, such as love, service, and connection—sentiments that can lead to a more compassionate and united future.
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