We are honored to share a heartfelt recollection of the late Pope Francis, authored by the esteemed professor who was the driving force behind a significant letter sent to Pope Francis by a coalition of 400 rabbis and scholars. This correspondence emerged in the wake of the recent outbreak of war in Gaza, to which the Pope graciously responded with a message of appreciation, emphasizing the bonds of solidarity and compassion that connect our communities.
To our cherished Catholic brothers and sisters,
In February 2024, during a time of profound sorrow and distress for our people, Pope Francis delivered a poignant message to the Jewish community in Israel. His words served as a source of comfort, reminding us of the enduring relationship between the Church and the Jewish people, a bond that stretches back over two millennia, marked by shared experiences, mutual respect, and an ongoing journey toward reconciliation.
Today, as we reflect on this long and intertwined history, we extend our hand to you in an expression of deep solidarity and heartfelt sympathy for the loss of your beloved shepherd. The passing of a leader like Pope Francis leaves an indelible void, one that resonates not only within the Catholic community but across all faiths.
In Jewish tradition, the phrase “may his memory be a blessing” carries profound significance. It transcends mere expressions of grief, transforming remembrance into a powerful commitment to action. We are called to make the memory of those we have lost a living testament, bringing to life the values and teachings they imparted during their time with us. The most sincere eulogies arise not just from words, but from deeds that reflect their legacy and aspirations.
The teachings of the Psalms remind us that creation itself glorifies God without uttering a word: “The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands… their voice goes out through all the earth, their words to the ends of the world.” This concept reflects the essence of our existence, where actions often speak louder than words.
This spirit of appreciation for creation and its divine connection was embodied by Saint Francis of Assisi, who famously invited even the smallest creatures of the earth to join in praising the Creator. “Sing, sister cicada, and praise your Lord!” he called out, illustrating a profound relationship with all living beings. His invitation was not merely for vocal expressions of piety but an exhortation to honor God through our very lives and actions.
Pope Francis carried forth this legacy with grace, always emphasizing the importance of gestures over rhetoric. In his encyclical Fratelli Tutti, he remarked, “Francis did not wage a war of words… he simply spread the love of God… In this way, he became a father to all and inspired the vision of a fraternal society.” His approach serves as a reminder that true leadership lies in compassion, understanding, and a commitment to building bridges between diverse communities.
As we navigate this moment of loss together, let us honor Pope Francis’s memory by embodying the values of love, unity, and respect that he championed throughout his life.
