It is with profound sorrow and deep reverence that we, the Inter-Regional Meeting of Bishops of Southern Africa (IMBISA), receive the news of the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis. On behalf of all the bishops, clergy, religious, and lay faithful within the IMBISA region, I extend our heartfelt condolences to the College of Cardinals, the faithful of the Diocese of Rome, and the entire Catholic Church across the world.
Pope Francis was a shepherd of simplicity, compassion, and profound courage. His papacy rekindled the spirit of mercy, inclusion, and a preferential love for the poor. He reminded the world that the Church is a “field hospital,” a place of healing and welcome, especially for the broken-hearted, the marginalized, and the forgotten.
In a special way, we in Africa were blessed by his fatherly love and prophetic voice. His deep concern for our continent was not only expressed in his teachings and prayers but also in his physical presence among us. We remember with gratitude his historic Apostolic Visit to Mozambique in 2019, a journey of peace and reconciliation that brought hope to a nation healing from conflict. In his warm smile and inspiring words, the people of Mozambique and the entire IMBISA region saw a Pope who walked with us who knew our joys and our struggles.
His emphasis on synodality, ecological justice, and the dignity of every person has left an indelible mark on the Church in Africa. He challenged us to dream big for our local churches and to always be close to the people, especially the poor.
As we commend his soul into the hands of our loving God, we remain inspired by his legacy of faith, hope, and boundless love. May he rest in eternal peace, and may the seeds he planted in Africa continue to bear fruits of justice, peace, and unity.
Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him.
Sincerely
Archbishop Liborius Ndumbukuti Nashenda, OMI
IMBISA President