Bishop Jan Hendriks had already planned his journey to Rome because of the national pilgrimage in the context of the Holy Year. “It was actually already arranged,” he says. “I would arrive on Friday for an existing program, but that program will now be slightly different.” Hendriks is grateful that he is able to experience the funeral of Pope Francis by a happy coincidence. “I really like that.”
Personal memories of Franciscus
Although the relationship between bishops and the pope often remains formal, Hendriks has warm memories of Pope Francis. “I met him personally a few times. When I introduced myself, he said,” I know who you are. ” He then started to recall memories of earlier encounters. ”
The bishop in particular emphasizes the simplicity and service of the pope. “He wore his bags himself. That seems small, but it says a lot. He wanted to radiate: I am only a person.” The fact that Franciscus visited a prison shortly before his death, says Hendriks typically. “He always gave the signal: there is room for everyone in this church.”
Humble leader
According to Hendriks, Franciscus also made an impression during official occasions, such as the five-year Ad Limina visit. The bishops of a country are then received by the pope to catch up. “Where earlier popes with a lot of ceremony were received, Francis himself was at the door to welcome you and bring it to your place. I have always experienced that humility as very instructive.”
Previous papal funeral
It is not the first time that Hendriks has experienced a papal farewell up close. “After the death of John Paul II, I was also in Rome. I was then able to say goodbye in the Saint Peter and the enormous crowds that came to honor him. That made a deep impression.”
Hendriks expects that again many believers will go to Rome to say goodbye to Pope Francis. “For many people, the pope is more than a ecclesiastical leader. He is a spiritual father. That touches people.”
King’s Day and papal funeral
The funeral of Pope Franciscus coincides with King’s Day in the Netherlands. Whether that should have an influence on the celebrations, leaves Hendriks to the king and government. “I think it is very nice that the king has sent a personal condolence. That is a warm gesture.”
World leaders will also be present at the funeral on Saturday in St. Peter’s Basilica, including President Emmanuel Macron of France and President Donald Trump of the United States. Bishop Hendriks travels on Friday to be present at this ceremony.
The condolence register in Haarlem will remain open until Thursday in the new Bavo on the Leidsevaart.