A Leader Who Tirelessly Sought

Abraham Skorka
Georgetown University, Washington DC

The Bible refers to human bereavement over the death of a loved one using the term “avelut” or mourning. In Genesis 50:10-11 the “avelut” of Jacob’s sons over his death is described. Deuteronomy 34:8 observes that the Benei Israel (Children of Israel) lamented the death of Moses for 30 days. Their weeping expressed their “avelut” for their departed guide and teacher.

“Avelut” is the manifestation of grief over someone, as well as the psychological and spiritual processing of the physical absence of someone who was among us but whose soul has now returned to God. It is the process by which the departed becomes embedded in the memory of those who continue along the path of life. Recollections of the deceased in particular circumstances or at specific moments shift into a fuller vista of their entire life.

The farewell that the world gave to Papa Francisco was an eloquent testimony to the respect he had earned through his humility and honesty. While some people may have disagreed with some of his opinions and stances, everyone knew he was a leader who tirelessly sought truth and justice and was fully committed to helping the needy across all communities.

The image of Presidents Trump and Zelensky engaging in an open dialogue in St. Peter’s Basilica after paying their respects to Francisco’s lifeless body is deeply moving. It can be seen as a powerful enactment of his life’s commitment to the principle of “dialogue, dialogue, dialogue.” In that moment, both leaders were inspired by the overall legacy of Jorge Bergoglio. In their own way, they were performing their “avelut.”

Beyond the disagreements he had with some Jewish leaders over the war that began on October 7, looking back today at the total picture of Bergoglio’s life, we also recall his reflections on the special relationship between Christianity and Judaism, which were summarized in a particular section of his Apostolic Exhortation Evangelii Gaudium (247-249). His profound personal commitment to combating antisemitism and his dream of peace between Israel and its neighbors will always remain in the memory of his legacy.

His final book, Hope: An Autobiography, is an autobiographical reflection that suggests Francis knew his time to depart was approaching. When mentioning our personal friendship, he precisely set forth the conviction that united us: the belief that honoring God means honoring humanity. For more than two decades, we were very close to one another, searching — through our respective spiritual traditions — for ways to honor those around us. I was part of the Vatican delegation on his pilgrimage to the Holy Land, and he asked me to stand by his side when he visited Auschwitz-Birkenau. Jewish history and sentiment were always dear to him. He recognized their importance and wove his concern for them into our friendship and work together.

The Book of Proverbs 10:7 states that the memory of the righteous will be a blessing. Their memory inspires and challenges us, motivating us to commit ourselves to their values — that is where the blessing lies. In Proverbs 20:27, we read: The lamp of the Lord is the human spirit, illuminating one’s inmost parts. Jorge Mario Bergoglio dedicated his life to God and fostered biblical values among his congregants. He was a lamp that kept the flame of spirituality and holiness burning — lighting a path that never fades.