The Most Rev. Matthew Kwasi Gyamfi, Catholic Bishop of Sunyani and President of the Ghana Catholic Bishops Conference, during the Requiem Mass of Pope Francis at the Holy Spirit Cathedral, Adabraka, Accra, on behalf of the conference, read a tribute in memory of His Holiness Pope Francis.
The tribute, which reflected on his impactful 12-year papacy, emphasised his close relationship with the Catholic community in Ghana and beyond.
Bishop Gyamfi described Pope Francis as a humble leader who was committed to caring for the marginalized in society. He said, “You chose the name ‘Francis’ not for grandeur but for mission, a pledge to rebuild Christ’s Church through simplicity, solidarity with the poor, and reverence for creation. Like St. Francis of Assisi, you rejected pomp and embraced humility”.
According to Bishop Gyamfi, Pope Francis redirected the Church’s focus towards those who are often forgotten and always described the Church not as a fortress but as a “field hospital,” advocating for healing through mercy rather than moralism.
Pope Francis, who openly condemned corruption and advocated for peace in conflict areas, visited Africa, including Kenya, the Democratic Republic of Congo, the Central African Republic, and South Sudan, which highlighted his unwavering commitment to peace.
Furthermore, the tribute acknowledged Pope Francis’s dedication to environmental stewardship through his encyclical “Laudato Si”, where he called for urgent action against ecological destruction as it relates to poverty.
“To you, climate change wasn’t an issue – it was a moral and spiritual emergency. You stood with young climate activists, indigenous leaders, and all who protect our common home, calling for repentance and action in the face of a “throwaway culture.”, Bishop Gyamfi said.
Describing Pope Francis as a reformer, Most Rev. Matthew Gyamfi said he revitalized the Synod process, promoting inclusivity and accountability within the Church. His humble lifestyle choices, such as residing in Casa Santa Marta instead of the Apostolic Palace, highlighted his dedication to serving others.
He added, “You elevated the voices of women and laity in Church governance. With a true shepherd’s love for the vulnerable and marginalized, you ensured more accountability and inclusivity in the Church.”
In addition, he also noted Pope Francis’s humble request to be buried in Rome’s Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore, beneath a plain stone.
“…and in death, a simple grave marked only “Franciscus” … You asked to be buried in Rome’s Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore, beneath a plain stone, close to Our Lady, you so often entrusted us to, Echoes of a Legacy from Argentina’s villas to Bangui’s cathedral, from the Amazon basin to African savannas, from refugees in Lesbos to climate marches in Paris, your voice echoes still: “Let us not be indifferent. Let us not look the other way”.
Most Rev. Matthew Gyamfi, therefore, expressed commitment to his request: “You asked, ‘Pray for me.’ Now we do. And we ask you: intercede for us that we might lead with humility, listen before speaking, and keep our eyes fixed on the margins.”
By: Veronica Sena Amenya//Newswatchgh.com
