In a rare one-on-one interview at the Diocese of Dallas, Bishop Edward Burns offered profound insights into the leadership of Pope Francis, who has guided over 1.4 billion Catholics worldwide.
Bishop Burns described Pope Francis as warm, hospitable, and genuinely authentic. He highlighted the Pope’s global perspective, stating that despite his universal role, he remained acutely aware of local community issues.
An anecdote shared by Burns illustrated this connection between the Pope and communities. During a visit of Texas Bishops to the Vatican, Pope Francis engaged with the bishops and discreetly called over an attendant. After a brief conversation, the attendant returned with a white bag. To the astonishment of the bishops, Pope Francis went directly to a Bishop from El Paso, presenting him with 23 rosaries meant for the families of the victims of a tragic shooting at a local Walmart, reflecting the Pope’s deep empathy and awareness of global events.
In February, Pope Francis addressed a letter to the U.S. Bishops regarding immigration, emphasizing the importance of accompanying people on their journeys. Bishop Burns emphasized the Pope’s clear message: while every nation has the right to secure its borders, every family also has the right to seek a better life. This dual acknowledgment, according to Burns, underscores the Pope’s challenge to nations regarding humanitarian issues.
Pope Francis’ inclusivity extended to marginalized communities as well, particularly towards the LGBTQ+ community. Bishop Burns noted that the Pope consistently emphasized that no one is excluded from God’s love, often speaking candidly and from the heart. His willingness to go off-script illustrated his sincerity and commitment to the core message of love and acceptance.
Following Pope Francis’s funeral, the Church’s traditions dictate that the Papal Conclave must commence within two weeks. This gathering of Cardinals in a secretive environment is essential for selecting the next leader of the Roman Catholic Church. Bishop Burns explained that this ritual holds significant importance, highlighting the necessity of prayer and contemplation.
The individual overseeing many rites associated with the late Pope and the upcoming Conclave is Cardinal Kevin Farrell. Having been appointed camerlengo in 2019, he previously served as Bishop of the Diocese of Dallas before Bishop Burns. Burns expressed his respect for Farrell as a dedicated churchman and noted that he had conveyed prayers from the Diocese of Dallas to Farrell in light of recent events.
Bishop Burns recalled a powerful statement from Pope Francis: “When there’s division, there’s death.” He suggested that this statement embodies the Pope’s approach to his papacy, which aimed to bridge divisions and foster unity amidst differing opinions.
Reflecting on the legacy of Pope Francis, Burns remarked on the imperative of unity in humanity, especially during chaotic times when division threatens to pull communities apart. He articulated the prophetic nature of the Pope’s words as a call for oneness among all people.
To honor the legacy of Pope Francis, Bishop Burns announced that he will celebrate a memorial Mass at the National Shrine Cathedral of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Downtown Dallas on Monday, April 28, at 7:00 p.m. This service will serve as an opportunity for the community to come together in remembrance and reflection of the Pope’s impactful life and leadership.
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