Cardinal Dolan remembered Pope Francis as a 'man of the heart,' emphasizing tenderness and mercy. He discussed Francis's impact on the global Church, highlighting his focus on love and compassion. Dolan also reflected on the legacies of previous popes, St. John Paul II and Benedict XVI. The cardinal's reflections were shared with EWTN News, providing insights into Francis's pontificate. Dolan is one of the cardinals who will vote in the upcoming conclave to elect the next pope.
8 days ago
Cardinal Timothy Dolan, the Archbishop of New York, shared his reflections on the late Pope Francis, characterizing him as "a man of the heart" who emphasized tenderness and mercy 1 2. Dolan's remarks provide insight into how Pope Francis's papacy was perceived by prominent figures within the Church.
Dolan recalls Pope Francis's first appearance after his election, noting that instead of a "theologically erudite talk," Francis spoke about tenderness 1 2. He emphasized that Francis believed God is tender with humanity and desires people to be tender with one another 1 2. This focus on tenderness became a hallmark of Francis's papacy, according to Dolan.
Dolan contrasted Pope Francis with his two immediate predecessors: St. John Paul II, who "reinvigorated the soul of the world," and Benedict XVI, who united "the mind, faith, and reason" 1 2. Dolan positions Francis as the Pope who spoke to the heart, completing a triad of spiritual and intellectual leadership 1 2.
Cardinal Dolan found it "magnificent" that Pope Francis's final encyclical, Dilexit Nos, centered on rediscovering the love and compassion found in the heart of Jesus Christ 1 2. Reflecting on Francis's hospitalization, Dolan noted the doctors' reassurance that "his heart is strong," which Dolan took as a confirmation of Francis's essential character 1 2.
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