Abuja: The Catholic Archbishop of Abuja, Ignatius Kaigama, has described the passing of Pope Francis on Easter Monday as the fall of ‘a mighty Iroko’. He noted that Pope Francis’ death was a loss that resonated across the world, affecting both Christians and non-Christians alike. In an interview with newsmen in Abuja, Kaigama reflected on the Pope’s profound spiritual and pastoral legacy, emphasizing how he embodied the qualities of Jesus Christ, notably mercy and love.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Kaigama highlighted the significant impact Pope Francis had during his papacy, showcasing his humanity and attentiveness to the needs of ordinary people. The Archbishop recalled how Francis traveled globally, spreading messages of love and mercy, and how he was particularly attentive to those marginalized by society, including the sick and prisoners. Kaigama urged Catholic faithful in Abuja and Nigeria to pray for the eternal repose of Pope Francis, emphasizing the need for unity and hope as the Church entered a period of transition.
Kaigama expressed his expectations for a new Pope, hoping for a leader who is good, holy, and dedicated to the people, irrespective of their origin. He pointed out that during the interregnum, the Vatican’s Camerlengo oversees daily affairs but no major decisions are made until a new pope is elected. The Archbishop called on the faithful to intensify their prayers, trusting the Holy Spirit to guide the Church through this challenging moment.
Pope Francis, the 266th pontiff of the Catholic Church and the first from Latin America, passed away on April 21 at the age of 88 in his Vatican residence, Casa Santa Marta. His death was officially announced by Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Holy Roman Church, following a period of declining health after a severe bout of pneumonia. Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Francis was elected pope on March 13, 2013, succeeding Pope Benedict XVI.
His 12-year papacy was marked by humility, a focus on the marginalized, and a drive for reform within the Church. Pope Francis championed social justice and environmental protection, most notably through his encyclical ‘Laudato Si’, and prioritized interfaith dialogue, seeking to make the Church more inclusive and responsive to modern challenges. Throughout his tenure, he implemented significant reforms, including overhauling Vatican finances, updating liturgical books, and simplifying papal funeral rites. He was also known for his outreach to the LGBTQ+ community and his advocacy for migrants and refugees.