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Here are some links to tributes to Pope Francis we have gathered from diverse faith traditions -- just a few among many! Unitarian Universalist Association President: Pope Francis' "moral clarity and justice-centered ministry, including his work elevating climate justice and highlighting the dignity and humanity of migrant families, were significant to all people of goodwill." CAIR National Executive Director: "The American Muslim community and many Muslims around the world appreciated Pope Francis' emphasis on the compassionate treatment of migrants and others facing crisis, his efforts to uphold the traditional values of his faith while maintaining a respectful tone, and his consistent condemnation of war crimes around the world, including in Gaza." Rabbi Burton Visotzky of the Jewish Theological Seminary: "I was struck by his humility and the twinkle in his eye. Here was a man who loved his fellow human being -- the very embodiment of 'love your neighbor as yourself' (Lev 19:18). ... Francis made a pilgrammage to Auschwitz. He visited the Holy Land ... Again and again and again, until the day before his death, Pope Francis spoke out against antisemitism. ... He was beloved even as he was outspoken. He was not shy about rebuking the State of Israel for their treatment of Palestinians, especially in Gaza. But to those who knew the Pope, we understood that he did so out of love and caring for Jews and non-Jews alike." Pax Christi International (Roman Catholic): Pope Francis was a steadfast defender of the Gospel values - particularly mercy, peace and nonviolence. ... Francis embodied a revolutionary spirit, urging a nonviolent revolution that prioritizes the well-being of all, especially the most rejected, excluded and under attack... He proclaimed, 'Faced with too much violence spreading throughout the world, we are called to a greater nonviolence, which does not mean passivity, but active promotion of the good.' This greater nonviolence... involves rejecting the temptation of violence, responding to evil with good (Romans 12:17-21), breaking the spiral of nonviolence, and creating potential for reconciliation." Pacifica Institute: "We honor Pope Francis - a light of compassion, humility and peace. May his legacy inspire us to walk in love and serve in grace." Fr. John Baumann, founder of Faith in Action: "The Pope taught us to be protagonists in the creation of a better, more humane future where everyone is loved and respected as a child of God." |