A Tribute to Pope Francis: A Man for and With Others

With deep sorrow and gratitude, we join the world in mourning the passing of Pope Francis, a pontiff whose message was mercy and whose life embodied his call to serve the human family with compassion and justice. This call to care for creation, to love without judgement and his acts of service for persons who are vulnerable touched the lives of many. His faith saw him through many challenges and hardships during his life.

Pope Francis’ leadership was a reminder that love is truly shown in deeds. His kindness was shown to children, persons in prison, women and men from all walks of life. He promoted dialogue and listening with an open heart, envisioning a welcoming Church that is present to those in need. He urged us to create a “culture of encounter” in a simple way, “as Jesus did”: not just seeing, but looking; not just hearing, but listening. He called persons of faith to be missionaries of hope.

We give thanks for the many ways Pope Francis asked for mercy, compassion, justice, truth and peace for all people. May he now rest in God’s eternal peace.