Bangsamoro: Pope Francis ‘source of mental clarity’ amid calls for peace

Pope Francis during his 2015 visit to the Philippines. CDN photo/ Lito Tecson.

MANILA, Philippines—The Bangsamoro Government on Tuesday expressed “profound sadness’ over Pope Francis’ passing, describing the late pope as a “beacon of hope and a tireless advocate for peace, justice, and interfaith dialogue.”

The Bangsamoro Government, led by Chief Minister Abdulraof Macacua, pointed out how Pope Francis appealed for peace despite the war and conflict in the Middle East, especially in Palestine.

“He was a source of moral clarity as he continuously urged world leaders to depart from war and instead seek peaceful resolutions. These were not mere pronouncements, but a call to action and a reminder of our shared humanity,” Bangsamoro Government said in a statement.

READ: Pope calls for Gaza ceasefire to be ‘immediately respected’

‘People’s Pope’

Widely known as the “People’s Pope,” Francis devoted his Petrine Ministry by standing up with the poor and oppressed and going against years-long injustices, such as war and conflict, and sexual abuse by several church leaders.

In a video posted by Vatican News on January 22, Pope Francis conversed with the Holy Family Catholic Parish in Gaza, Palestine. The late Pope also previously called for a ceasefire in Gaza to be “immediately respected,” emphasizing his hope that all the hostages will be able to return to their homes.

READ: Pope Francis: Remembering his life, teachings and legacy

The Bangsamoro Government also said that it stood in solidarity with its Christian brothers and sisters, emphasizing that it would affirm its commitment “to fostering a society where peace and mutual respect are the cornerstones of our existence.”

Pope Francis died of a stroke on Easter Monday at the age of 88 in Vatican City. The late pope last appeared in public on Easter Sunday, where he was seen riding a popemobile and greeting many people.