Remembering Pope Francis and Grateful for Pope Leo

We are deeply saddened by the passing of Pope Francis. As a ministry of the Catholic church, we mourn the loss of his leadership but take comfort in the knowledge of his eternal rest through the love and sacrifice of Jesus. With gratitude for the life and witness of Pope Francis, we pray now, “Go, good and faithful servant, to your eternal reward!”

A reflection and prayer to celebrate the life of Pope Francis.

Lord, we come to you with deepest gratitude for the life of Pope Francis, and we pray for his eternal rest with You. We give thanks for all that Pope Francis did to spread love, mercy, compassion and care for the marginalized throughout Your world. We pray You hold all those that grieve closely to You.  We look with hope to the future of the Church. We pray for Your guidance, direction and wisdom as we seek ways to continue Pope Francis’ legacy, being with and caring for the most vulnerable among us and all of God’s creation.

May his faithful and humble service continue to be an example and a beacon of hope for all of us. In Your holy and precious name we pray, Amen.

At the same time, we look forward to Pope Leo continuing his legacy of mercy, compassion, concern for immigrants, and reverence for Catholic Social Teachings which guide our work.