Milan, 21 April (LaPresse) – “Farewell to Pope Francis: A Brother in Faith, a Beacon of Brotherhood”. These were the words of Yassine Lafram, president of the UCOII (Union of Islamic Communities in Italy), in a letter of condolence. ‘With deep sadness and emotion, I wish to bid farewell to Pope Francis, a man who left an indelible mark on the history of the Church and in the hearts of all those who believed in dialogue, peace and brotherhood among peoples. His passing represents an immense loss not only for the Catholic faithful, but for all humanity, which found in him a spiritual guide capable of breaking down barriers and building bridges between people of good will. In this moment of grief, I join with affection and closeness the Catholic Church and all those who today mourn the loss of an extraordinary shepherd,’ Lafram wrote. ‘I still remember with emotion the moment when I greeted him, telling him that for us Muslims, the name Francis represents not only poverty, but also dialogue with Islam. I sensed from the very first moment that his pontificate would be characterised by openness, encounter and a desire to build bridges between people of good will. Over the years, I had the privilege of meeting him many times, accompanying various delegations representing the Muslim world. Each time, as I said goodbye, he would ask me with his sincere smile to pray for him and, jokingly, would say, ‘Pray for me, not against me,’ he adds.