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Cardinal Luis Pascual Dri Passes Away at 98 Years Old

A serene sanctuary interior featuring soft candlelight and a confessional, reflecting peace and forgiveness.
  • Cardinal Luis Pascual Dri passed away on June 30 at 98 years old.
  • His funeral service was held in Buenos Aires at Santuario de Nuestra Señora del Rosario de Nueva Pompeya.
  • Dri was a quiet but essential figure in the Church of Argentina, known for his pastoral care.
  • He was elevated to cardinal in 2023, recognized for his life of service rather than public accolades.
  • Pope Francis regarded Dri as a model of priestly mercy and humility.
  • Dri’s ministry touched the lives of many, particularly the poor and forgotten.

Quiet Service to the Church in Argentina

Cardinal Luis Pascual Dri, the esteemed Capuchin friar from Argentina, died peacefully on June 30 at the remarkable age of 98. He spent his final years quietly administering the sacrament of confession in Buenos Aires. His funeral took place at the Santuario de Nuestra Señora del Rosario de Nueva Pompeya, a place that was home for almost two decades and a site of his dedicated ministry. The Mass of Burial was conducted on July 2, with the Archbishop of Buenos Aires, Jorge Ignacio García Cuerva, presiding over the ceremony.

A Life Dedicated to Ministry and Faith

Dri was appointed a cardinal in 2023, a significant elevation that came in the twilight of his long life and even longer ministry. While he may have only recently been elevated, he was already an essential figure, known for his pastoral demeanor rather than any notable ecclesiastical title. Many will remember him not for public statements but for the several hours spent in the confessional, embodying the very essence of mercy. His early life in Federación, Entre Ríos laid the groundwork for a faith-led journey that began at just 11 years old, when he entered the Capuchin seminary. He was ordained in 1952 and was instrumental in religious education across Uruguay and Argentina.

A Model of Merciful Priesthood

Cardinal Dri’s enduring legacy is perhaps most visible in his time at Santuario de Pompeya, where he remained active in ministry long after retirement in 2007. He was regarded for his patient and fatherly counsel, always present for those seeking spiritual guidance. Notably, Pope Francis, who as Archbishop Jorge Mario Bergoglio sought Dri’s wisdom and forgiveness during times of need, often highlighted him as a model of what it means to be a merciful priest. The Argentine Bishops’ Conference expressed deep regret upon his passing, describing him as a beloved figure who tirelessly shared God’s love.

In conclusion, Cardinal Luis Pascual Dri leaves behind a lasting legacy that reflects a life of devotion to the Church and its most vulnerable members. His commitment to listening, guiding, and forgiving stands as a powerful testimony to the ideals of mercy championed by Pope Francis. His humble existence and dedication serve as a reminder of the profound impact individual faith can have on a community and the Church at large.

Jamal Walker is an esteemed journalist who has carved a niche in cultural commentary and urban affairs. With roots in community activism, he transitioned into journalism to amplify diverse voices and narratives often overlooked by mainstream media. His ability to remain attuned to societal shifts allows him to provide in-depth analysis on issues that impact daily life in urban settings. Jamal is widely respected for his engaging writing style and his commitment to truthfulness in reporting.

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