Bishops pay tribute to civil rights activist Rosa Parks

Detroit, Mich., Oct 25, 2005 / 22:00 pm

Civil rights pioneer activist Rosa Parks was “an instrument of God,” said Cardinal Adam Maida of Detroit Monday upon hearing of the death Rosa Parks.

"In her own simple way, Rosa Parks changed the history of our nation,” said the cardinal in his message. Parks lived in Detroit and died Monday at the age of 92. Parks action was credited for sparking the U.S. civil rights movement when, in 1955, she refused to move from her seat at the front of the bus, previously reserved for Caucasians, in Alabama

“She forced us to recognize the dignity of every person,” the cardinal continued. “She was a prophet -- a common instrument of God inviting us and challenging us to a new vision of solidarity, equality and justice.”

Bishop Eddie Long of Atlanta said Parks “will always be remembered as a shining light in a dim world. Her legacy as a catalyst for social change and justice for all mankind will always be remembered and cherished for countless generations to come.”

“Mrs. Parks’ ultimate stand in life was that she remained seated; her ultimate role as an activist was that she did not move. For that, I honor the life and legacy of the matriarch of a nationwide movement that birthed a global ideology of equality and justice for all,” he said.