Cardijn Community International convenor, MJ Ruben has issued the following statement mourning the death and celebrating the legacy of Pope Francis:
Cardijn Community International (CCI) expresses its deep sorrow and shock at the death of Pope Francis today.
Pope Francis was the first non European Pope in 1300 years. He was the first Latin American and first Jesuit Pope.
He stood for social justice, reforms in the Church, came out with strong comments on many traditions of the structural Church, was a champion of Ecological Education and more importantly stood for world peace.
Pope Francis tried his best to make the Church, a Church of the Poor.
CCI looks forward to the continuation of the reforms and dreams of Pope Francis and hopes for a suitable choice in the next few days guided by the Holy Spirit.
Rest in eternal peace Papa Francis! You have done enough!