NCCK Letter of condolences on the passing of His Holiness, Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI
The National Council of Churches in Korea expresses its deep condolences on the passing of Pope Benedict XVI, and we offer our consolation to all the members of the global Catholic community who will be grieving at this moment.
We will long remember the teachings of the Pope and the life and practices of the priest who led the conversation and cooperation between the Catholic Church and the Ecumenical Faith along with. In particular, he devoted himself to harmonious dialogue between Catholics and Protestants, along with the Faith and Order Commission, which will be recorded as a great achievement and legacy in the ecumenical movement for Church unity throughout the world.
In addition, the theological legacy of the Pope, the pure heart of Christ's love and peace he modeled, and his spirit of humility toward low places will be remembered as part of the legacy of all the Ecumenical faith communities and the trajectory of life, a model that we must continue to practice.
Once again, we deeply mourn the passing of Pope Benedict XVI alongside all our friends of faith who walk this path of pilgrimage in the Korean Church's ecumenical tradition and history, and we pray that the Pope will enjoy a peaceful rest in God's arms forever.
“Let him be as helpful as rain that refreshes the meadows and the ground.
Let the king be fair with everyone, and let there be peace until the moon falls from the sky.” Psalm 72:6-7(NRSV)
January 3rd, 2023
National Council of Churches in Korea
Rev. Lee, Hong Jung, General Secretary