PM Orbán in Rome: Trump Leads the Peace Movement
Pope Francis’ Funeral: A Celebratory Farewell Filled with Hope
In the wake of Pope Francis’ passing, Prime Minister Viktor Orbán described the funeral Mass held in Rome on Saturday as both a heartfelt farewell and an inspiring event. Speaking to the commercial channel TV2, Orbán reflected on the significance of the occasion, emphasizing its hopeful message.
A Call for Peace
Orbán noted his personal connection to the late pope, calling Francis a friend as well as a "promoter of the peace initiative." He articulated that on a day marked by global conflicts, the legacy of Pope Francis was prominently centered on peace. “Today, everything was about peace, and the end of war,” he observed, urging the world to "be brave and make peace."
When asked about the likelihood of world leaders embracing this message, Orbán expressed optimism, positing that if he could understand it, others could as well. However, he acknowledged the challenges in translating this call to action into reality, particularly as political dynamics unfold.
Challenges Faced by the Christian Church
During his remarks, Orbán also shared his views on the future of the Catholic Church, stating that the next pope will face significant challenges. He highlighted the necessity for leadership that could bridge divides within the church, suggesting that “it will be more of an intellectual task than an organizational one.”
In a poignant statement, Orbán declared the Christian Church as the most persecuted institution globally, noting that Christians face the highest number of deaths for their faith. He stressed the urgent need to protect each other and strengthen the community under a unifying papal leadership.
A Moment of Reflection for Hungarians
On this national day of mourning, Orbán urged Hungarians to engage in quiet self-reflection, focusing on personal growth in the wake of the pope’s passing. He encouraged citizens to rise as better individuals in light of this loss.
Tributes to Pope Francis
Tristan Azbej, the state secretary for the foreign ministry, echoed Orbán’s sentiments by signing the Book of Condolences at the Apostolic Nunciature. He expressed gratitude for Pope Francis’ life and work, emphasizing the pope’s commitment to peace and his affection for Hungarian communities.
Azbej underscored the pope’s legacy, particularly noting the attention he paid to the plight of persecuted Christians. He concluded with a heartfelt tribute, stating, "Rest in peace," as a reminder of Francis’s enduring impact.
As the world reflects on Pope Francis’ contributions, the message of peace and unity he championed continues to resonate deeply, inspiring hope for a future free from conflict.
