Capuchin Cardinal, Revered as “Teacher of Mercy”, Dies at 98 in Buenos Aires

BUENOS AIRES, Argentina, July 2, 2025: Cardinal Luis Pascual Dri, the Capuchin friar known for his tireless ministry in the confessional and his role as a spiritual model for Pope Francis, passed away on June 30 in Buenos Aires at the age of 98. His funeral will be held today, Wednesday, July 2, at the Shrine of Our Lady of Pompeii, where he had lived in retirement since 2007.

Born on April 17, 1927, in Federación, Argentina, Dri entered the Capuchin order in 1945. He came from a devout family—eight of nine siblings pursued religious life. His ministry included years as a missionary and spiritual guide, shaped by the examples of Padre Pio and Saint Leopold Mandić.

Often referred to as the “Teacher of Mercy”, Cardinal Dri was elevated to the College of Cardinals by Pope Francis in the 2023 Consistory. Though unable to attend the consistory in Rome due to his health, he received the cardinal’s biretta and ring in Buenos Aires. He was assigned the title of Cardinal-Deacon of Sant’Angelo in Pescheria. He termed his appointment as cardinal as a “gesture of tenderness” from the Pope.

Even after receiving the red hat, Cardinal Dri continued his daily rhythm of confession and prayer. “I am as much a sinner as those who come to me,” he often said, emphasising mercy rooted in personal humility and hours spent in prayer before the Tabernacle.

Pope Francis had publicly spoken of Dri on several occasions, including in his 2014 book The Name of God is Mercy and during meetings with priests and confessors. In 2017, he gave clergy in Rome a biography of the friar titled Don’t Be Afraid to Forgive, highlighting Dri’s example of pastoral compassion.

Reflecting on his life, Cardinal Dri once said, “I have no degrees, no titles. But life has taught me a lot. And having been born very poor, I feel called to always offer a word of mercy, help, and closeness. No one should leave thinking they were not understood or welcomed.”

Courtesy: Vatican News