‘There can be no peace without freedom of religion, freedom of thought, freedom of expression and respect for the views of others.’
It is both fitting and moving that Pope Francis included these words in what was to be his final public address, delivered on his behalf by Master of Liturgical Ceremonies Archbishop Diego Ravelli to a crowd of over 20,000 people at the Vatican’s St. Peter’s Square on Easter Sunday.
Throughout his 12-year papacy, Francis was a committed friend to the poor and the marginalised, a vocal advocate for freedom of religion or belief (FoRB) and other fundamental human rights, and a man who spoke truth to power right up to the final days of his pontificate.
At a time when leaders of such humility and integrity appear to be in increasingly short supply, it is essential that his successor follows his example.
Continue reading “Pope Francis leaves a legacy of standing up for freedom of religion or belief. His successor must build on it. “