Bishop Peter Kang U-il

Dear beloved brothers and sisters,

For the past few days we have enjoyed touching moments, exhilaration and delight with Pope Francis.

The pope shouted out to the youth of Asia gathered in Korea to wake up, though they may be seeped in drowsiness. He also added that even if today's reality may seem to be difficult and full of despair, with no hope of escape, don't fall away, but rise up. The pope urged us to go in search of more noble values that are worthy of pursuit, while constantly reflecting upon ourselves, warning us against worshiping the earnings of economic growth, wealth and basking in the temporary comfort of riches. He called us to find the compassion to feel for the poor, migrants and marginalized people. As he announced the 124 martyrs as being the victorious blessed of the world, he invited us to ask ourselves for what cause can we sacrifice our lives.

He who enlightens us has shown that to which he himself is committed. From morning until the late hours of the night, he led his aged body on, to be there for those who needed him the most. He would always hold his hand out once more for anyone who wished to hold on to it. Without words, he silently embraced those gripped by grief and shaking in frustration. He listened to those who wished to bemoan their stories, shared love and sympathy by showing affection and by rubbing cheeks with disabled children, children who were left behind by their parents and by the world due to their disabilities.

He made us realize that building solidarity with the poor is beyond simply sharing material things. Accepting the fact that, indeed, they are our brothers and sisters, also made in the image of God, and lifting them up to enable them to acquire the same respect and dignity as human beings like us, is the utmost priority. Pope Francis did not cease from showing his true beliefs and feelings about the world and human kind during his five days and four nights spent in Korea.

Pope Francis didn't stay for long, yet he brought comfort, compassion and hope to many who had been in need. He said that peace is not merely a state of no war, but is the result of justice, while deeply wishing for peace on the peninsula and across East Asia. Although economic indicators show that Korea is at its most developed point in history, the lack of justice causes much grief in ever increasing numbers.

In that context, peace on the Korean Peninsula should start with us seeing each other as noble brothers and sisters, created in the likeness of God. When justice flows like a river within us, the water can flow north and south, east and west, flowing into a sea of peace. I wish our society could learn from the spirit of Pope Francis, overcome the discord and confrontation between social classes and go onward to become a society of compassion and respect.

I feel extremely guilty and sorry to our fellow citizens for the discomfort due to the traffic restrictions and congestion caused by the papal visit. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the cooperation and patience that was nonetheless shown by the people. President Park Geun-hye and various government ministries have helped us immensely in both material ways and in spirit. In particular, a deep thanks and blessings to the volunteers and those who whole-heartedly served in the shadows. Pope Francis has departed with great joy and deep thanks for the warm reception from believers and non-believers alike who welcomed him. He will not forget the deep affection from the hearts of the people.

Dear brothers and sisters,

Let's remember his words of, "Arise, shine," and put justice in front of us and light the darkness that lays ahead. We ask for aid from all the martyrs of this land, from our 103 saints and our 124 blessed, and we send you all of our blessings in the name of the Lord.

August 18, 2014
President of the Catholic Bishops Conference of Korea
Preparatory Committee for the Visitation of the Holy Father
Bishop Peter Kang U-il