April 21, 2025
Tribute to Little Francis
We love you, Pope Francis, little servant of Love. In everything, you wished to resemble Saint Francis, whom you chose as your patron for your mission as Supreme Pontiff. With him, you undertook to rebuild the Church of the 21st century. Thank you.
On behalf of all the Maronites of Cyprus, the diaspora, and all people of goodwill, we lift our prayers and gratitude to the Lord for the gift that Pope Francis has been to the Church and the world.
A man of God, a shepherd close to the faithful, a builder of the temples of the body, a prophet of modern times, he led the Church with humility, courage, and discernment. I had the honor of knowing him personally, collaborating with him during the Synod "For a Synodal Church: Communion, Participation, and Mission," and sharing with him moments of profound and sincere dialogue. His piercing gaze read the signs of the times, and his heart beat to the rhythm of the joys and sufferings of all peoples. Here in Cyprus, he supported us in our efforts to reclaim the villages of “Asomatos” and “Ayia Marina”. Thank you.
Pope Francis had a deep love for justice and truth, which he cherished above all. He knew very well that where truth does not exist, justice cannot exist either, and vice versa, and that people would then be crushed under the yoke of tyranny. This is why he called for and worked towards a Synod on Synodality: a Church that listens, that accompanies, and that elevates each person toward the dignity and mercy of God.
We remember with emotion his visit to Cyprus. It was an unforgettable moment of grace, the moment of the poor among the poor. Together, with the Latin Church and the Cypriot government, we welcomed this apostle of peace and dialogue, a tireless witness of reconciliation and fraternity. His presence left an indelible mark on the hearts of our people, renewing within us the hope and commitment to building bridges between cultures and traditions.
Today, we entrust his soul to the Lord, certain that he hears these words:
"Well done, good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over a little, I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your master." (Matthew 25:21).
His legacy will remain alive in our Church, in our hearts, and in the history of humanity.
Rest in peace, our beloved Holy Father, and pray for us. Amen.
† Selim Sfeir
Maronite Archbishop of Cyprus