Statement on the Passing of Pope Francis

The Passing of Pope Francis
Oblate James Holzhauer-Chuckas, ObSB, Executive Director

Dear UCYM Community,

It is one of those times in life that you will never forget where you were when you first found out. I am writing at 3:15 am after having found out 15 minutes ago of the passing of Pope Francis when feeling a particular urge to check Facebook one last time before bed. 

This is a pivotal moment for billions of people as Pope Francis for the last 12 years has prayed for us, challenged us, and helped us take steps forward as church. I won't forget where I was in 2013 when it was announced he was elected pope. I remember not knowing a thing about him, but someone next to me was crying because they were happy to see the institutional Church make this somewhat "daring" move to affirm a leader who was an advocate of reform. That gave me hope. 

Over the last 12 years, I have watched Pope Francis lead by example. His actions more often than not spoke louder than his words, which always seemed to bring light to darkness. Pope Francis taught simply. His ideas were not new, but he gave an immensely strong platform for the way the faithful must always have eyes, hearts, and hands to serve the poor and marginalized. His words rang true as I studied liberation theology and discerned that it not only was how I wanted to be in relationship to God, but to my sisters and brothers. 

To say that Pope Francis will be missed is an understatement. He was a champion for all who seek to follow Christ. I don't feel it was an accident that he was able to offer us one more Easter message; one more inspiring message of hope as we all now seek to bring to life the hope and love of the resurrected Christ. 

As we look ahead and know there will be a conclave, we must pray. Let us pray for our cardinals. Let us pray for each other. Let us pray for Pope Francis. His spirit lives on in all of us. 

Pope Francis, pray for us.