Sinn Féin Leader Mary Lou McDonald has expressed her deep sadness at the death of Pope Francis. She said: “For those of us who are Catholics, this is a moment of huge loss but the death of Pope Francis will also be mourned by those across the globe who respected him as a courageous spiritual leader, a man of strong conviction who stood up for those most marginalised and vulnerable.”
Ms. McDonald said:
“I want to express my deep sadness at the death of Pope Francis. For those of us who are Catholics this is a moment of huge loss. The death of Pope Francis will also be mourned by those across the globe who respected him as a courageous spiritual leader, a man of strong conviction, who stood up for those most marginalised and vulnerable. He led by seeking to reach-out to others in the spirit of humanity.
“Pope Francis will also be remembered for standing up for peace and justice in the face of global tension, instability and militarism – including unjust and illegal wars in Palestine, and Ukraine. Even while he was in hospital, he maintained almost nightly phone calls to a parish in Gaza City and he was resolute in his solidarity with the people of Gaza.
“The papal visit to Ireland in August 2018, as part of the World Meeting of Families at Croke Park, was an important occasion for both Ireland and the Church.
“At the Dublin Castle event, clerical abuse survivors, representatives from the institutional Church, government, and civic society, listened to Pope Francis acknowledge past failures and the subsequent hardship, suffering and trauma caused by clerical sex abuse, mother and baby homes, and Magdalene Laundries scandals. Pope Francis heard directly of the importance for healing and justice that was rightly expected and deserved by all victims and survivors.
“The papal visit marked the redefined role between Church and State, and how today Ireland balances its rich faith with the realities of a modern, pluralistic society.
“We deeply value the leadership given by Pope Francis throughout his papacy, his vital voice for peace and warmly recognise his thoughtful and courageous contributions, even as he battled ill health, and until his sad passing. He will be remembered as a good and decent man who led the Catholic Church with compassion and a genuine desire to bring the light of hope in an uncertain world.” ENDS/CRÍOCH
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