Be humble,
Be simple,
Bring joy to others.
Saint Madeleine Sophie Barat
Dear Family of the Sacred Heart,
Our hearts are filled with sorrow as we mourn Pope Francis. Surely, he brought to life the above words of Saint Madeleine Sophie. Francis lived from the conviction that hope is born of love that finds its roots in the pierced heart of Christ. He reminded us daily that such hope does not deceive or disappoint because it is grounded in the certainty that nothing and no one may ever separate us from God’s love. Through word and deed, Pope Francis showed all that to live in the Risen Christ is to see the world with new eyes and to live this life from a profound center of love.
Let us never forget Pope Francis’ call to us to be Pilgrims of Hope lighting a way forward by communicating the joy of the Gospel. Let us honor his memory by showing in thought and deed reverence for the human dignity of each person and for our common home. Let us embrace with renewed conviction Francis’ call to compassion, humility, peace, justice, and mercy. May we continue to embrace his understanding of servant leadership.
As we pray in thanksgiving for Pope Francis’ life and for the repose of his soul, let us also pray for all who grieve his loss, especially the young people in whom he also saw such hope. May we take up Francis’ Christ-like spirit and voice of compassion, peace and hope.
May his soul rest in peace and rise in glory,
The Society of the Sacred Heart, United States – Canada Provincial Team
Suzanne Cooke, RSCJ, Provincial
Maureen Glavin, RSCJ
Paula Gruner, RSCJ
Mary Kay Hunyady, RSCJ
Lynne Lieux, RSCJ
