Grieving the Death of Pope Francis

The Pope is the highest authority figure in the Roman Catholic hierarchy. He is expected to be in daily communion with the divine, to act with integrity on behalf of all Catholics worldwide, and some would suggest, all Christians. He promotes peace, goodwill, and faithfulness.

Throughout history popes have been statesmen on the global political and diplomatic stages. The pope is a living symbol, an administrator, a pastor, a theologian, a teacher, a head of state, and a persuasive voice in global dialogue.

The pope is elected by the College of Cardinals, presumably under divine influence, and with very rare exceptions, serves his papal role for life.

Today, the Roman Catholic church, and really, the world has lost another pope. At the age of 88 Pope Francis has made his ascension beyond this life to whatever glories lie beyond. 

He leaves a loving legacy. He was kinder than some of his predecessors appeared to be. He was gentle. He was a person of prayer, and he lived more humbly than most of his predecessors. He nudged the church beyond the staleness of ancient attitudes and tended to put human welfare ahead of dogmatic conformity. 

Some LGBTQ+ people praise him for his more pastoral attitude toward LGBTQ persons while others wish he could have done more. In any case, his willingness to discuss difficult issues and not dismiss them without consideration is something more than we’ve seen from other pontiffs.

Pope Francis’ homilies were love-filled, thoughtful, and delivered from the heart of a servant leader. He has left his mark on the church. He ministered to Catholics, Protestants, and non-Christians as well. May his memory be a blessing to all who hold it. And may his successor also lead from love and toward justice and healing for those within the church and beyond.

 Requiescat in pace il papa.

-The Global Institute Council of Bishops

April 21st, 2025, FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE