Statement by Archbishop Salvatore J. Cordileone on the death of Pope Francis
Upon learning the news of Pope Francis’ passing, let us join together in prayer that the Lord may grant him safe passage to the heavenly Kingdom, and give him the reward of God’s good and faithful servants. The outpouring of prayers, good will and love for our Holy Father not only from Catholics but from people of different faiths all over the world is edifying and personally fills me with gratitude.
Pope Francis called on us all to give more, sacrifice more, and care more about the poorest and most vulnerable, from the tiny infant in the womb, to the elderly and infirm, to the migrant and the refugee. Let us take inspiration from his words and example and put that inspiration into action. That is the greatest tribute we could give to him.
Eternal rest grant unto Pope Francis, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May his soul and all the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.
What is a Conclave and how does it work?
The upcoming conclave will be directed by Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the next eligible most senior cardinal bishop and the Vatican’s secretary of state.
*A view of the Vatican’s Sistine Chapel on Oct. 29, 2014. (photo: ohumil Petrik/CNA / EWTN)
Dr. Moynihan and Archbishop Salvatore J. Cordileone discuss the Death of Pope Francis, priesthood, sacred music, Benedict XVI Institute and more
Watch the Archbishop’s tribute to Pope Francis on Merit TV
Franciscus
1936-2025
Born Dec. 17, 1936, in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Pope Francis was ordained in 1969. He served as a Jesuit provincial and seminary rector before Pope St. John Paul II appointed him auxiliary bishop of Buenos Aires in 1992. He became Archbishop of Buenos Aires in 1998 and was created a cardinal in 2001. In 2013, he was elected Pope.
Tributes to Pope Francis at Parishes
St. Stephen Church
