Archbishop of Winnipeg says Pope Francis makes the Catholic Church more popular
Less than 24 hours after he appeared in St. Peter's Square on Easter Sunday, the Vatican announced the death of Pope Francis in the early hours of Monday.
His 12-year Pope was the most progressive of generations as he advocated for the poverty of same-sex marriage, approved blessings, and appointed women to play an important role in the church.
Archbishop Murray Chatlain of Winnipeg said Francis led the Catholic Church to become more enthusiastic.
“He would say it wasn't a hotel for the saints, but a hospital for the sinner,” Chatland said. “That feeling of listening – he really focused on us being an audience and we first have to listen to the people around us.”
The 88-year-old pope was recently hospitalized with pneumonia, but the Vatican said he died of a stroke, resulting in coma and irreversible heart failure.
Three years ago, Pope Francis apologized to the Indigenous people of Canada as the role of the church in the residential school system. After apologizing, a visit to Canada was made later that year.
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This demonstrates his “character and integrity”, said David Chartrand, president of the Manitoba Metis Federation.
“Even though he risked exposure during the 19th pandemic, he made an excellent decision to say hello and shake hands with every member of our delegation,” Chartrand said. “Each member feels true respect and is honored and recognized.”
Chatlain, who served as Archbishop of Keewatin-Le in northern Manitoba and served in the Canadian Catholic Indigenous Parliament, added that the pope's visit expressed much to his parishioners.
“The Pope is determined to come, and he is coming modestly, openly, honestly – I think it's a very beautiful example and really reminds us of all the people we have to work on this reconciliation.”
Chatlain will hold a commemoration of Pope Francis at St. Mary's Cathedral on Wednesday at 7:30 pm.
In a statement on X, Prime Minister Wab Kinew paid tribute to the Pope, saying: “His humility and commitment to service will be remembered.
“His apology to the Indigenous peoples of Canada is an important step in the path to reconciliation for mistakes in the past and makes sense for many, including my own family.”
Winnipeg Mayor Scott Gillingham also expressed condolences to Catholics who mourned the pope.
“Pope Francis will be remembered for his warm, permeable and gentle pastoral presence. He is a strong voice of peace in a world scarred by conflict.”
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