KUALA LUMPUR: Even in the saddest of news, there was light for many mourning Catholics across Malaysia as they reminisced their fond memories and teachings of Pope Francis.
At the Cathedral of St John the Evangelist, many followers were seen writing final farewell messages to Pope Francis in a condolence book.
Homeless aid organisation founder Gary Liew, who mourned Pope Francis’ sudden passing at the age of 88 on Monday, said he had lost a mentor and family member.
Having met Pope Francis twice before in Singapore, Liew said the personal meetings motivated him to start the non-governmental organisation Street Feeders Of KL to feed the homeless.
“His teachings of caring for the poor and marginalised captivated me.
“I will ensure that his teachings will live on through my work with the same spirit that he instilled in me,” said Liew, 37, who is also the Archdiocese of Kuala Lumpur Human Development Commission director.
Parish priest Gerard Thevariam, 63, said he would uphold the teachings of the late Roman Catholic Church leader in his parish.
“His decision to give his final Easter address on Sunday despite being ill was a truly beautiful showcase of his drive to not only be a Pope to Catholics but a Pope to the world.
“With his teachings of caring for the marginalised etched in me, I will continue to ensure that everyone is welcomed in my Cathedral,” he said.
Parishioner Racine Lin, 56, said the sudden passing of Pope Francis left her with a pain in her heart akin to the passing of a family member.
“His teachings taught me how to pray heart to heart and to be honest with our feelings in prayer,” she said.
Daniel Roy Santiyagu, 34, said he felt blessed to have met Pope Francis twice which inspired him to be a better person.
“He was humble and inspiring. I looked up to him as a role model. I will always be grateful for the encounters I had with him.
“His constant invitation to listen and speak with the heart made me feel valued and has guided me through life,” said Daniel, who is the Diocese of Penang social communication head.
Elvina Fernandez, 38, said her meeting with Pope Francis last September would remain a guide to live a more harmonious life.
“I witnessed firsthand how he made faith feel personal again and his kind gestures, patience, humility and warm embrace resonated deeply with me.
“His call to embrace hope, courage and care for others has personally inspired me to foster greater understanding and harmony in our multicultural society,” she said.
Herald - the Catholic Weekly editor Patricia Pereira, 59, said Pope Francis’ words and lessons will forever live in her to carry on his message.
