Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
by Father Ibrahim Faltas ofm*
Jerusalem ( Fides Agency) - We were in Emmaus when Pope Francis left us. We were remembering the living presence of the Risen One when the Holy Father joined him. The news of his death left us stunned and surprised after we felt hopeful seeing him again the last few days among people, with his usual willingness to shake hands, offer a benevolent smile, and a loving glance.
The Holy Father has marked the path of hope in peace: he has traced the way with signs, gestures, and simple, concrete, direct appeals. He has walked that path with humanity, just as Jesus shared the path of the disciples of Emmaus, reassuring them with his presence. Will we be able to start again and continue on this path? His strength in demanding value and dignity for human life has strengthened timid consciences, his meekness has given security and support to the demand for truth and justice.
As Pope Francis left this earthly life, the world continues to be enveloped in violence and suffering. Children dying with the complicity of the world's indifference, children trying to save themselves from the flames of miserable tents, their only refuge, are the image of the failure of politics and diplomacy to which the Holy Father referred in his numerous appeals.
Until his last breath, Pope Francis had thoughts and concerns for the Holy Land and for the wars in the world. Until his last breath, he called for a ceasefire. The Holy Father always courageously denounced those who build and sell instruments of death, those who have an interest in continuing war to conquer territories and destroy lives, and those who do not take responsibility for peace.
The Holy Father leaves us with a great responsibility and a great gift: the courage to love. Lord, to whom shall we go? You alone have the words of eternal life! ( Fides Agency 21/4/2025)
*Vicar of the Custody of the Holy Land
