Former General Secretary of the Christian Council, Rev. Dr. Kwabena Opuni Frimpong, has described the passing of Pope Francis as painful but one that ultimately glorifies God.
Speaking in an interview on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, Rev. Dr. Opuni Frimpong said the late pontiff’s humility, simplicity, and commitment to social cohesion should serve as a lesson to Christians across the world.
“His death is painful, but it glorifies God. He has done his part on this earth. Although I am not Roman Catholic, I admire his humbleness — it is something we all must learn,” he remarked.
The Executive Director of the Alliance for Christian Advocacy praised Pope Francis for living a life of service, noting that his leadership stood in sharp contrast to some church leaders who, rather than serve, seek to dominate or subvert others when placed in positions of power.
“The Pope came to serve, not to subvert. Unlike some pastors who use their position to look down on people, Pope Francis remained humble and accessible,” he said.
Rev. Dr. Opuni Frimpong stressed that the Pope’s life reflected the true essence of Christian leadership.
“He was simple; he lived among the people, and even though he suffered at the hands of some, his humility never changed. If God raises us to higher positions, we must learn to be humble like him,” he urged.
He further encouraged pastors and Christians alike to adopt the Pope’s approach to human relationships.
“If you’re a pastor and you don’t take care, pride can set in. But if we learn from Pope Francis, we will treat people with respect and humility,” he added.
The Vatican announced on Monday, April 21, that Pope Francis had passed away at the age of 88, days after being discharged from hospital where he had been treated for an infection.
For Rev. Dr. Opuni Frimpong, the Pope’s life leaves behind a lasting message.
“If everyone will learn from his ways, the world will be a better place. He lived a simple life, and that is something worth emulating.”
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