April 4, 2005

VALLEY FORGE, Pa. – American Baptist Churches USA General Secretary the Rev. Dr. A. Roy Medley has expressed sadness over the death of Pope John Paul II and appreciation for the pontiff's commitment to interfaith dialog and to social justice.

"Today, with many other American Baptists and Christians throughout the world, I deeply mourn the passing of Pope John Paul II," Medley said Saturday after the news of the pope's death had been received.

"Although our traditions each are distinctive, we have shared with this great pastoral leader a fundamental commitment to glorify God through embracing the precious gift of new life and reconciliation embodied in our Lord Jesus Christ," Medley said. "Over the past quarter century John Paul II inspired millions of Catholics to examine their faith and draw closer to God. He has been a leading voice for the poor and disenfranchised throughout the world, and a strong advocate for peacemaking and for understanding among cultures and religions."

"My prayer," Medley said, "is that our Roman Catholic sisters and brothers will find God's peace and comfort at this moment, as the transition to new leadership begins."

American Baptist News Service