April 3, 2005 - Message of Condolence from Rabbi Gewirtz
I am writing to you from Detroit. I have
just learned of the tragic passing of Pope John Paul II.
I am certain that many will praise the Pope and his great contributions to
the world Catholic community, to the furthering of the relationship between
Jews and Catholics, and to all of humanity in ways too numerous to mention
in a brief communication. All of this is certainly true.
I would like to add one additional thought. In following the outpouring of
prayers and tears that have been reported from around the world during these
past weeks and days, all focussing upon beseeching the Almighty for His healing
of the Pope, it became clear to me that prominent among all that he was, the
Pope was the human father of all the world's Catholics and you have been his
children. As such, you have all lost your parent. And it is for this loss that
I offer condolences to you, personally, to the Archbishop, personally and as
the leader of Boston's Catholic community, and to all your Catholic brothers
and sisters throughout the Boston community and around the world.
The pain you now know can only be searing. At the same time, I pray, that with
the passage of time, you will all be consoled, and then invigorated, to carry
on the special mission of Pope John Paul II. My best wishes to you all.
Rabbi
Dr. Gershon C. Gewirtz
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