April 25, 2025

With hearts full of both sorrow and gratitude, we join the Church and the world in mourning the death of our Holy Father, Pope Francis. His passing on Easter Monday—in this Octave of Easter when we solemnly celebrate Christ’s victory over death—reminds us of the hope that defines our faith.

Born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, and elected pope in 2013, Francis was the first Jesuit, the first from the Americas, and the first to take the name of St. Francis of Assisi. From his first words on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, he invited the world into a papacy marked by humility, mercy, and compassion. “Pray for me,” he said simply—and it became a refrain that would echo throughout his ministry.

His motto, Miserando atque eligendo—“by having mercy and by choosing him”—defined his mission: to lead a Church that reaches out to the poor, the forgotten, and the wounded. He reminded us that the Church is not a fortress, but a field hospital, and called all the faithful to be missionary disciples who bring the joy of the Gospel to the world.

Pope Francis challenged us to care for the environment, welcome the migrant, protect the unborn, and build a culture of encounter rooted in the dignity of every person. His writings—especially Evangelii Gaudium, Laudato Si’, and Fratelli Tutti—offered a bold vision of a Church that listens, walks with others, and never tires of showing mercy.

In 2015, Pope Francis visited the United States, capturing the hearts of millions. He addressed Congress, met with the poor, and presided at the World Meeting of Families in Philadelphia. In his address to Congress, he reminded lawmakers—and all of us: “Let us treat others with the same passion and compassion with which we want to be treated. Let us seek for others the same possibilities which we seek for ourselves.”

His witness, words, and warmth inspired people of all backgrounds and beliefs. As we commend him to the mercy of God, we give thanks for his leadership, his courage, and his unwavering proclamation of hope in Jesus Christ.

Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord,
and let perpetual light shine upon him.
May he rest in peace. Amen.