Francis today encouraged the work of the Fondazione Carlo Maria Martini on the occasion of the first anniversary of the death of the cardinal, who was archbishop of Milan from 1979 until he retired in 2002.
Cardinal Martini died Aug. 31, 2012, at the age of 85.
Members of the foundation, accompanied by the provincial for Italy of the Jesuits, met with the Holy Father today. Cardinal Martini was a Jesuit, as is Pope Francis.
Vatican Radio reported that during the brief meeting, the Pontiff recounted his memories of Cardinal Martini, in particular his address on faith and justice during the 1974 General Congregation of the Jesuits.
Francis called Cardinal Martini a prophet of peace, and encouraged the Foundation in its work, recalling the duty of children to their fathers. He said Cardinal Martini was a father in the Church, not only for his diocese, but for countless people.
“We, at the ends of the world,” said Pope Francis, “received from him a great contribution to biblical knowledge, but also because of his spirituality and life of faith, were nourished by the Word of God.”
