Francis Cardinal George, A Remembrance

 

 

 

His Eminence Francis Cardinal George, Archbishop Emeritus of Chicago, died on Friday, April 17 after a long battle with cancer. He was 78. As this news spread, many reporters commented on Cardinal George's leadership skills as Archbishop of Chicago and president of the US Conference of Catholic Bishops, his defense of the Roman Catholic faith, his intellect and his faith. The man Pope Francis called a "wise and gentle pastor" will be remembered by the Federal Association for his love of the Malades on the Lourdes Pilgrimage.

 

Cardinal George traveled with the Federal Association on the charter flight in 2013, leading the Rosary as the pilgrims prepared themselves for the journey to Lourdes. There he took time each day to be with the Malades, listening to their stories and showing the love of Christ in his actions. He stepped out of the administrative duties of Archbishop and focused on his role as humble priest.

 

He walked through the waiting area at the baths, seeking out the Malades from the Federal Association, talking to each and offering a blessing in a patient and loving way. Many Malades from other groups recognized him and called to him in their native language. He would stop and respond, often speaking their language, and offer a blessing. He took extra care to help the children.

 

At each meal, Cardinal George asked Malades to join him at his table. In the evening, he spent time speaking with the pilgrims in the hotel lounge about his experiences in Rome and issues in the Church. Throughout the pilgrimage, Cardinal George took time to speak to the children who were Malades and to comfort their parents. At the airport departure lounge, he could be seen speaking with the children, reading to them and listening to their stories. 

 

Francis Cardinal George, OMI (Oblate of Mary Immaculate) never forgot that he was a missionary priest first. Never expressing any concern about his own pain or discomfort, he took time to see to the needs of others. Cardinal George had been a Conventual Chaplain ad honorem of the Order of Malta since 1997 and was made Bailiff Grand Cross of Honor & Devotion for Cardinals in 1998.

 

May his soul and the souls of all the faithful rest in peace.