SA Council of Churches sees Pope's Easter death as symbolic
The South African Council of Churches has highlighted Pope Francis’ death as one of symbolic significance following his passing shortly after Easter Sunday.
The council’s secretary general, Mzwandile Molo, said that as Christians were celebrating the resurrection of Christ, Francis’ departure can be seen as his ascension into the presence of God.
Francis died on Monday at the age of 88 from a stroke, less than a month after returning home from five weeks in hospital battling double pneumonia.
“The passing of the Holy Father marks the conclusion of His journey of papacy defined by humility, compassion, and the tenderness of God’s heart, especially for the weak and vulnerable in the world,” said Molo.
He said Francis demonstrated his love and compassion for the poor by leading a global movement for service to the downtrodden.
Molo added that they would remember the Pope’s commitment to interfaith dialogue and his open-minded approach to fostering unity among diverse religious communities.
The Vatican announced on Tuesday that the Pope’s funeral will be held on Saturday in the square in front of St Peter's Basilica at the Vatican.
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