Pope Francis sent a message to Kiko Argüello to assure his affection and spiritual closeness upon the death of Carmen Hernández, who with Argüello, founded the Neocatechumenal Way.
Hernández died Tuesday at the age of 85 at her home in Madrid.
Her funeral Mass was held today in Madrid, celebrated by Archbishop Carlos Osoro Sierra of Madrid and concelebrated by several cardinals and bishops.
Here is the Pope’s message:
To Mr. Francisco (Kiko) Argüello
Neocatechumenal Way
Madrid
I have received with emotion the news of the death of Ms. Carmen Hernández, after a long life marked by her love of Jesus and by a great missionary enthusiasm. In this hour of painful separation, I am spiritually close with my affection to all the family and to the whole Neocatechumenal Way, of which she was a co-initiator, as well as with all those who have appreciated her apostolic zeal, made concrete above all, in showing an itinerary of baptismal rediscovery and of permanent education in the faith. I give thanks to the Lord for the witness of this woman, animated by a sincere love for the Church, who has spent her life in the announcement of the Good News in every place, as well as those far away, never forgetting the most marginalized people.
I entrust her soul to the Divine Goodness so that she may be welcomed in the joy of the eternal Passover and encourage those who have known her and those who are part of the Neocatechumenal Way to keep her evangelizing eagerness alive, in an active communion with the bishops and priests, while exercising patience and mercy with all.
With this desire, I invoke the maternal intercession of the Virgin Mary and impart my Apostolic Blessing to those present at the funeral rite.
Given at the Vatican, July 20, 2016
