Clergy, religious sisters and diocesan leaders who serve in the Diocese of Camden and beyond reflect on Pope Francis’ ministry and legacy, and recall meeting the pontiff.
~ Father Ariel Hernandez, Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament Parish, Newfield
“Being from Argentina, we share the same language, culture, teachings and traditions. As a priest, I see myself in him. … Our Holy Father adopted the name Francis for Saint Francis of Assisi, who is the model of humility and merciful love. His biggest legacy is mercy, to be compassionate to every single human being. He also teaches us the love of God’s creation, and he asks us to protect and care for our world and for every single human being. [As] he leaves us and God calls him home, he gives us the biggest teaching – which is to have hope.”
~ Andrés Arango, Bishop’s Delegate for Hispanic Ministry and director of Evangelization for the Diocese of Camden.
“Pope Francis reminded the world of God’s mercy. With his words and actions, he showed us that God is a Father who loves us all without judgment or conditions. I vividly remember today the words he said to me the first time I met him: “I hope all of you have an Encounter.” His pontificate was a constant call to us to a daily personal encounter with Jesus, to fall in love with Him. Finally, he was a man powerfully moved by the Holy Spirit, and with that boldness, he always motivated the Church to go out of itself and each one of us to give our lives in love and service to those most in need.”
Father Michael Romano, Vice-Rector and Director of Admissions at the Pontifical North American College in Rome; former Director of Vocations for the Diocese of Camden
“During my six years of ministry at the North American College, I have had the distinct privilege of annually greeting the Holy Father with our new men. Being his ‘neighbor’ and having the opportunity to shake his hand naturally made my fondness for the Pope increase. I often tell the men who will join our seminary that it is hard not to love the guy once you meet him because you see him in a different light. As opposed to what someone learns through the media, with their particular biases, Pope Francis welcomes us to his home, jokes around and gives practical advice. I have met a pope who is comfortable in being his real self and, like the rest of us, is trying to grow in holiness and in love for the Lord each day. These personal interactions have helped me to know the man rather than the stereotype. Consequently, he became a leader I have wanted to follow, support and emulate.”
~ Sister Jerilyn Einstein, FMIJ, principal of Guardian Angels Regional School:
“I had the awesome opportunity of meeting Pope Francis during our General Chapter. The members of our gathering attended his general audience on a Wednesday, and we had a group photo with him. He took his time with us and spoke personally to some of the sisters, giving them a special blessing for their mission. His authenticity was touching.
Pope Francis’s ability to connect with people from all walks of life and his unwavering commitment to Gospel values were truly remarkable. His courage in addressing important issues, regardless of acceptance, made him a powerful witness to Christ’s teachings.
In my opinion, he represented Christ on earth, living and witnessing the Gospel values.”
~ Jose Sanchez, director of Immigration, Refugees and Migrant Services for Catholic Charities of South Jersey
When Pope Francis requested that as Catholics, we journey to the marginalized and encounter the people in their living situation, Catholic Charities took the words to heart and made trips to the [Texas-Mexico] border. Once there, I visited and talked to people, not as refugees, migrants or undocumented; I saw people looking for a life that would allow them to work and be productive. I talked to fathers who wanted for their children an opportunity for a healthy life. I saw people who had not seen a priest in months and were grateful, that because of Pope Francis’ directive, priests were at the respite center to pray with them and for them.
MORE TO COME
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