Statement from the Moderator Regarding the Passing of His Holiness Pope Francis

It is with profound sadness, we mourn the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis - a humble servant, a courageous voice for justice, and the first Pope of the Americas.

Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Argentina, Pope Francis brought to the papacy not only his Jesuit wisdom and deep theological insight, but also the heart of a pastor who walked alongside his people. For 15 years, he traversed the streets of Buenos Aires by bus and underground, always close to those he served. “My people are poor and I am one of them,” he once said. His words came to define a papacy rooted in humility, simplicity, and solidarity.

Throughout his tenure as Bishop of Rome, Pope Francis championed the dignity of the marginalised, called the world to care for creation, and extended the hand of friendship across faiths and cultures. His commitment to interfaith dialogue and mutual respect helped build bridges in a fractured world. Whether standing alongside leaders of other Christian denominations, engaging with Jewish, Muslim, Hindu, or Buddhist communities, or reaching out to those with no faith at all, Pope Francis embodied a vision of unity grounded in shared humanity.

His leadership reflected the radical love of Christ and reminded us all that compassion, mercy, and justice are at the heart of the Gospel.

Today, the world has lost a moral leader, the Church has lost a shepherd, and millions have lost a beloved figure who made them feel seen, heard, and valued.

We give thanks for the life and ministry of Pope Francis, and we pray for comfort for all who mourn. May he rest in God’s eternal peace, and may his legacy continue to light the path ahead.

His leadership reflected the radical love of Christ and reminded us all that compassion, mercy, and justice are at the heart of the Gospel.