In a video prepared by Cardinal Joseph Tobin for his archdiocese of Newark, the former superior general of the Redemptorists bears witness to the person and work of Pope Francis and asks for prayers for the upcoming Conclave.
“It is with joy and sadness that I wish to share this message, sadness because our beloved Pope Francis, a few days ago, returned to the house of the Father, but here in Rome we have witnessed incredible beauty, pilgrims from all over the world who have come to give thanks to God for Pope Francis and for the gift of his ministry.
He never spared any effort to be close to his people, during his life the Holy Father sought Christ with tireless devotion, joyful witness to the Gospel and deep love for each of us. His tenderness and courage have left an indelible mark on the life of the Church and in our hearts.
We mourn his passing, yes, but we do so with hope, knowing that he now contemplates the face of the Lord, whom he served so faithfully. His words and his example remain for us an indelible treasure for the Church and for the world.
There is still time until the conclave begins, but the College of Cardinals is already praying and reflecting to hear the voice of the Holy Spirit as we prepare for the sacred task of electing the next successor of Saint Peter.
There is confidence that Christ himself is leading his Church, let us move forward, not with fear, but with FAITH, the questions we share are the same ones we ask ourselves in our diocese: where are we, where the Lord is calling us, how will we get there together?
For this reason, I ask you to dedicate a moment of prayer for the cardinal electors and, as you pray for the deceased Pope, also pray that the Holy Spirit may guide the Church in this sacred time of renewal.
I want you to know that you are close to my heart here in Rome. I keep you and your families in my prayers every day.
Christ is risen! May He fill us with the hope and peace that only He can give!”
