Francis’ path to pope for the poor – topic of the week
My message to the College of Cardinals as they move into the preparations for the election of the successor to our inspirational shepherd, Francis, is please be courageous and bold.
Alamy
The death of Pope Francis has brought a real sense of loss – not just to the Catholic faithful but among those of different faiths and of none. His ministry was marked with a humility that connected with people. He was a tireless advocate for the poor, the excluded and the displaced.
In his words and actions we see the spirit of St Vincent de Paul – who channelled his faith to the service of the poor and marginalised. Francis, too, reminded us that our faith is hollow without charity. He stood with migrants, the homeless, the forgotten and the excluded: “Take care of brothers and sisters who are weaker … the elderly, the sick, the hungry, the homeless and strangers, because we will be judged on this.”
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