Quebecers who had the opportunity to pay tribute to former Pope Benedict XVI, who died on New Year’s Eve at the age of 95 Acknowledgment of sexual abuse by members of the Church.
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“He saw me and walked right up to me and took both hands. I could not believe it! says Quebec publisher Anne Sigier, who specializes in religious writings.
During a trip to Rome in 2008 to attend a ceremony hosted by Benedict XVI. To take part, Mrs. Sigier was able to exchange a few words with the Holy Father who passed away on Saturday.
She describes him as a humble man who listens to others.
“He looked me in the eye and told me that the words of the gospel are just words if they are not put into action. He didn’t speak through his hat,” the 89-year-old said sadly about her departure.
Etched Memories
Two years earlier, it was Jérémy Gabriel’s turn to inaugurate Benedict XVI. to meet in person.
The one who was then called “Little Jérémy” realized a dream by singing “I Nourish the Eternal” before the Pope at the age of only 9.
Photo courtesy of Observatore Romano
Jérémy Gabriel sang in front of Benedict XVI in 2006. and met him.
“I wanted to show that it’s possible to believe in your dreams even if you’re a young disabled person from Charlesbourg. The Holy Father was touched by my story and he agreed to listen to me,” says the young man with Treacher Collins Syndrome, now 26 years old.
After his performance, the images of which went around the world, the Pope congratulated him on his career before presenting him with some gifts.
“Although he was a very important man, he seemed simple and warm. I remember that moment,” says Mr. Gabriel.
face the music
En route to Rome to attend the funeral of the man of the Church, Archbishop of Quebec Msgr. Gérald Lacroix stressed Benedict XVI.
“He always encouraged and supported me in the role I had, it means a lot to me,” says the one who has met him a few times.
Photo: AFP
Worshipers paid their last respects to the former pope on Monday in St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome
Aware that the Holy Father’s conservative line may have shocked more than one during his short reign, Bishop Lacroix prefers to emphasize the role he played in denouncing sex scandals.
“He was the first to dare to welcome victims of abuse, to face this crisis and say it’s zero tolerance. He opened the door to everything that came after,” said the archbishop, also emphasizing his sensitivity to indigenous peoples.
WHAT YOU SAID
“ He lived in very complicated times, but he was basically a good person. »
– Jeanne Lemire, bookseller who Benedict XVI. met in 2012
“ In truth, this extremely cultured Pope had chosen simplicity. »
– Anne Sigier, publisher who met the Pope in 2008
“ When they took office, several hundred priests were dismissed from the clergy for abuse. He was a believer. »
– Msgr. Christian Lépine, Archbishop of Montreal
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