Bishop Anthony B. Taylor issued this statement following the death of Pope Francis:
“The passing of Pope Francis calls us to pray for him and to reflect on our relationship with the Lord. As the spiritual leader for Catholics throughout the world, he led by word and example, always challenging himself along with us to be more Christ-like in the way we live our faith. He sought to be a messenger of hope and mercy for Catholics and others, calling all to a deeper relationship with the Lord through prayer and good works that reflected the compassion and love of Jesus.
“He was sincerely and deeply concerned about the poor and people living on the margins, and he was not afraid as their Shepherd to be their voice. As we join the world in mourning the Holy Father’s passing, let us pray for eternal rest for his soul. Eternal rest grant unto your servant, Pope Francis, O Lord; and let perpetual light shine upon him. Amen.”
