Pope Francis once stated, “The whole journey of life is a journey of preparation…to see, to feel, to understand the beauty of what lies ahead, of that homeland towards which we walk.” We gather this morning to commend him unto the infinite mercy of God in order that all the angels and saints may come to escort him into this heavenly homeland this day.
All of us find ourself on this same journey where the Kingdom of Heaven is our ultimate goal. We must choose not to squander this time set before us (no matter how long or short that it may be), but to take advantage of it with the confidence of faith.
Pope Francis served the church as pope for 12 years. Prior to this he served the church as a cardinal, a bishop, a priest, a deacon, and as one who was baptized. Despite the temptations of this life and the weight of the cross he was sent forth in service to Christ and the Church including those who are most in need.
We must take this same initiative upon ourself to place our trust in the Lord and to go wherever He calls. Baptism is not simply an action of the past, but one that continues to move us forward each day towards the Heavenly homeland.
It is for this homeland that we must now strive and for which we now hope for Pope Francis. Eternal rest grant unto him O Lord and let perpetual light shine upon him. May his soul and the souls of all the faithful departed through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.
