April 2, 2005

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ in the Catholic Church,

On behalf of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), I join you in the mourning of the death of His Holiness Pope John Paul II. Know that the prayers of Presbyterian and Reformed Christians worldwide are with you at this difficult time.

As Pope John Paul II traveled around the world, he offered spiritual inspiration to millions of Catholics and non-Catholics alike. He modeled and defended the Christian faith in all aspects of his life.

Those of us in the Presbyterian Church (USA) deeply appreciated the opportunity to send a delegation to Rome in 2001 to meet with His Holiness and the Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity. Pope John Paul II did much to further the cause of Christian unity throughout the world by supporting dialogue and encouraging positive relationships within the larger Christian community. We rejoice in the significant steps that have been taken between our two churches toward the goal of Christian unity since the Second Vatican Council.

It is in times like these when we are most keenly reminded of our common bond as brothers and sisters in Christ and members together of Christ's body. As the apostle Paul wrote to the church in Corinth, "If one member suffers, all suffer together with it ..." (1 Cor. 12:26).

We give heartfelt thanks for the life of His Holiness Pope John Paul II and his steadfast witness to the gospel. We will continue to hold in prayer the College of Cardinals as they discern the will of God in choosing the new spiritual leader for the Catholic Church.

Yours in Christ,
Clifton Kirkpatrick
Stated Clerk of the General Assembly

Presbyterian News Service