“Will the numerous mourners who grieve his passing honor his desires? Will they show compassion towards the Gazans and Palestinians as he did?”
The Vatican confirmed on Monday that Pope Francis has passed away at the age of 88, just hours after he participated in an Easter mass where he called for an end to the conflict in Gaza.
During the pope’s Easter message, which was delivered by Archbishop Diego Ravelli, he lamented the ongoing “horrible conflict” in Gaza, highlighting its horrific death toll, destruction, and the severe humanitarian crisis it has caused.
“My plea to those involved in the conflict is to declare a cease-fire, release the captives, and assist the famished population that longs for a peaceful future,” the pope’s statement urged. A vocal critic of military actions, environmental degradation, and extreme economic disparity, his message resonated with urgency and compassion.
“In the brutal reality of conflicts that affect innocent civilians and target schools, hospitals, and aid workers, we must remember that the impacts are not on inanimate targets but on individuals, each endowed with a soul and inherent dignity,” he continued in his address.
Pope Francis’ demise was announced following a lengthy struggle with double pneumonia, which led to over a month of hospitalization. The Vatican’s announcement did not provide a specific cause of death.
A piece by The Nation’s John Nichols on Sunday characterized Pope Francis as a potent and consistent advocate for the Palestinian people, particularly during the intensified Israeli operations in Gaza.
Nichols elaborated:
The pope has boldly addressed issues like economic injustice, racism, environmental neglect, militarism, and the disparities worsened by new technologies. His outspoken nature has attracted criticism, not only from conservative circles who disagree with his positions but also from progressives who feel he could push harder for modernization within the church. Nevertheless, he has been a prominent voice for regions often ignored or forgotten by political and media establishments.
His commitment has been particularly pronounced regarding Gaza, where he has continuously advocated for cease-fires, arms embargoes, humanitarian aid, and diplomatic efforts that acknowledge Palestinians and Israelis as “brotherly peoples entitled to live in peace.”
In his homage to Pope Francis, Palestinian theologian Munther Isaac expressed on Monday, “He showed genuine empathy towards Palestinians, especially those suffering in Gaza amidst this tragic genocide.”
“Today marks the pope’s departure from this world, leaving behind the ongoing occupation and barrier. What’s even more tragic is that he leaves while a genocide still persists,” Isaac noted, referencing the pope’s call for a comprehensive international examination of the Israeli assault on Gaza.
“Today, I question whether the millions who are mourning his passing will fulfill his last wishes,” Isaac pondered. “Will they extend their care to Gazans and Palestinians as he did?”
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