With Deep Gratitude for the Life and Testimony of Pope Francis

Today, the Claretian Missionaries join the world’s Magnificat for the life of Pope Francis, a humble shepherd, prophet of tenderness, and tireless witness of the Gospel. His life was a sign of the God of surprises, who acts with simplicity, closeness, and joy, just as he reminded us so many times.

In July 2023, we were blessed to meet him during our XVIII General Chapter. That moment, full of simplicity and depth, was engraved in our hearts as a gift that today takes on new light. He spoke to us as a father and brother, encouraging us to be consecrated women with hearts full of mercy, with a “mother’s heart” like Mary. He invited us to never lose tenderness and to care for fraternity, with the joy of those who know they are loved by God.

His words then, as throughout his pontificate, confirmed us in the missionary path: “Do not be afraid to cross geographical borders, and even existential frontiers, as Fr. Claret did, so that all may know the boundless love of the Heart of God. The Church and the world today urgently need the faithful and courageous witness of your consecrated lives”.

Also, in October 2023, at the closing of the first session of the Synod, the Pope sent us a warm video message. In it, he reminded us to never lose hope and to keep moving forward, not letting the fear of making mistakes hold us back.

His testimony has been for us a living inspiration of what it means to go to the peripheries, embrace fragility, care for the common home, and live synodality as an evangelical style.

Today, we give thanks to God for his selfless life, for his prophetic words, and for his close affection. We join in prayer with the entire Church, asking that the Lord receive him with love, as a good and faithful servant. And from heaven, may he continue to intercede for the Church he loved so much and for each of his sons and daughters.

Rest in the peace of God, whom you loved so much.

https://www.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/speeches/2023/july/documents/20230724-clarettiane.html