- Cardinal Luis Pascual Dri died at 98 in Buenos Aires.
- He was known for his humble, silent ministry and confessions.
- Dri served the Church primarily in Argentina and Uruguay.
- Pope Francis regarded Dri as a model of merciful priesthood.
- The Argentine Bishops’ Conference expressed deep sorrow over his passing.
Beloved Fr. Dri Remembered for His Humble Service
Cardinal Luis Pascual Dri, the revered Capuchin friar and confessor of Pope Francis, passed away on June 30 at the age of 98, leaving behind a legacy deeply rooted in pastoral care and humble service. His funeral took place at the Santuario de Nuestra Señora del Rosario de Nueva Pompeya in Buenos Aires, where he had dedicated nearly twenty years of his life to the ministry. The burial service, held on July 2, saw Archbishop Jorge Ignacio García Cuerva honoring Dri’s lifelong commitment as he presided over the Mass of Burial.
Cardinal Dri’s Lifelong Commitment
While Dri was officially made a cardinal only in 2023—at the remarkable age of 96—his influence in the Church spanned decades. He was not known for lofty titles or public announcements; instead, he represented simple compassion, spending countless hours in the confessional offering guidance and forgiveness. A key figure in the Church in Argentina, he was born on April 17, 1927, in Federación, Entre Ríos, and had a family background where many embraced religious life. Dri entered the Capuchin seminary at a young age and moved through various roles, impacting communities from Uruguay to Argentina as a pastor and educator.
The passing of Cardinal Luis Pascual Dri marks the end of an era of devoted service characterized by humility and forgiveness. His life reflected the core values that Pope Francis promotes in the Church, emphasizing mercy and compassion. Dri’s legacy will continue to inspire many, reminding us of the importance of listening and supporting those in need, leaving a heartfelt impact on the Church in Argentina and beyond.
