You will never be forgotten: UAE believers mourn Pope Francis’ loss
Catholics across the UAE had offered prayers to the Pope when he fell ill in February
Dubai: The passing of Pope Francis has been met with profound sorrow and heartfelt tributes from residents across the UAE, who remember him as a beacon of peace, humility, and interfaith understanding.
Scores of believers have expressed their deep sense of loss, recalling his historic visit to the nation in 2019 as a pivotal moment of unity and inspiration. The sentiments shared by UAE residents paint a picture of a pontiff deeply admired and respected by the Catholic community and people of various faiths.
Valeria Di Santo Della Penna of the Italian Social Club “Associazione Italiana Dubai” echoed the collective feeling, stating that the community joins “the condolences of the entire human community for the passing of our beloved Pope Francis.”
With wisdom and compassion, he enlightened the Holy Church and the world through the power of his faith and goodness, expressing authenticity and charisma beyond comprehension.
A man of unshakeable faith’
For many individuals in the UAE, Pope Francis’ visit in February 2019 remains an indelible memory. Priya Jose expressed her profound pride in having been present during this “historic visit to Abu Dhabi,” describing him as a “beloved spiritual giant” and an “icon of humility, compassion, and unshakeable faith.”
She felt “extremely fortunate and proud” to have witnessed the event firsthand, recalling the opportunity to “see him, pray with him and be part of the incredible event I will never forget.”
Socelle Fuentes recounted the overwhelming experience of seeing many devoted people gathered in a Muslim country for a holy mass led by Pope Francis. The power and warmth of his presence created a “one-of-a-lifetime experience” that remains unforgettable.
Harold Grecia Orona highlighted Pope Francis’ commitment to the values embodied by his namesake, St. Francis, particularly his “love for the poor, the destitute and the victims of injustices among humans and most especially, the undeniable love for God.” Orona admired his leadership model and offered prayers for his eternal peace, acknowledging that the Pope “had finished the race and fought the good fight of faith throughout his life here on Earth.”
I admire his leadership model and even used it during my advanced studies.
I was lucky to get a seat in the stands right opposite the stage set for him (Pope Francis).
His message about peace fed my soul.
I had the chance to see him, pray with him, and be part of the incredible event, which I will never forget.
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