Georg Bätzing: Pope Francis - a brave renewer of the church

Bonn | Bätzing: Church loses «Great Pope»

The chairman of the German Bishops' Conference, Georg Bätzing, recognized the recently deceased Pope Francis as a "great pope". In an appreciative statement, Bätzing emphasized the importance of Francis' for the Catholic Church, in particular his role as a brave renewer. He emphasized that the Pope had always tried to be in direct contact with people and to work for the marginalized groups of society.

Pope Francis set strong accents in the church through his work and initiated new ways of coexistence. His vision of a synodal church will continue to be shaped by the upcoming general meetings of the world synod in 2023 and 2024. These synodal processes reflect Francis' efforts to make the church more open and community.

Bätzing underlined the role of Francis as a bridge builder, who was able to bring different people and communities together. In times of great challenges inside and outside the church, he was a sign of hope and compassion. The grief of the loss of the Pope is associated with gratitude for his lifelong commitment to humanity.

The reactions to the death of Pope Francis indicate a profound dismay within the Catholic community worldwide. His visions and achievements have not only influenced the Catholic Church, but also the interreligious dialogue and relationship with other religious communities. These changes will continue to provide discussions and developments within the church in the future.

With the farewell to Pope Francis, a new era for the Catholic Church begins, which has to face the challenges of the present. His values ​​and principles will continue to serve as guidelines, while church life enters a new phase.