With profound sadness and total submission to the will of Almighty God, we mourn the passing of our beloved Pope Francis, who departed this life on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88. His death occurred at 7:35 AM CEST at his residence in the Vatican’s Domus Sanctae Marthae, as announced by Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Apostolic Chamber.
A Shepherd of Humility and Reform
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Pope Francis made history as the first Latin American and Jesuit pope, ascending to the papacy on March 13, 2013, following the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI . His tenure was marked by a commitment to humility, inclusivity, and social justice. He chose to reside in the modest Casa Santa Marta rather than the Apostolic Palace, reflecting his dedication to simplicity.
Pope Francis was a vocal advocate for the marginalized, addressing issues such as migration, climate change, economic inequality. He also called for the abolition of the death penalty and condemned the treatment of Indigenous students in Canadian residential schools, labeling it as genocide. Despite facing criticism over his handling of clerical sex abuse scandals, he implemented significant reforms to address episcopal accountability.
Global Mourning and Tributes
The news of Pope Francis’s passing elicited an outpouring of grief and tributes from around the world. World leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, honored his legacy of compassion and spiritual bravery. In Italy, Serie A football matches were postponed in his honor, with clubs like AS Roma and Lazio paying heartfelt tributes to his impact on the sports community.
A Legacy Rooted in Faith
Pope Francis’s papacy was characterized by a deep work ethic, a focus on compassion, and efforts to modernize the Catholic Church. He maintained traditional stances on certain issues while empowering women in church decision-making and advocating for the poor and oppressed. His leadership bridged faith and social justice, navigating internal church tensions with grace and humility.
A Reflection on Psalm 116:15
The verse, “Precious in the sight of the LORD is the death of His saints,” underscores the value God places on the lives and deaths of His faithful servants. The term “precious” conveys high worth and significance, indicating that God is not indifferent to the passing of His saints. Pope Francis’s life and death exemplify this truth, as his unwavering commitment to God’s work continues to inspire the faithful worldwide.
“Blessed are those who have died in the Lord; let them rest from their labors for their good deeds go with them.” ~ Rev 14:13
PRAYER FOR THE DEAD: In your hands, O Lord, we humbly entrust our Holy Father, Pope Francis, Your faithful servant. In this life, you embraced him with your tender love; deliver him now from every evil, and bid him eternal rest. The old order has passed away: welcome him into paradise, where there will be no sorrow, no weeping or pain, but fullness of peace and joy with your Son and the Holy Spirit forever and ever. Amen 🙏🏽
Final Prayer
Eternal rest grant unto Pope Francis, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May his gentle soul, and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in perfect peace with our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.