STATEMENT from the diocese following the death of Pope Francis
It is with great sorrow and grief that we learned of the passing of Pope Francis. He leaves us heartbroken with sadness, but with the same serenity he displayed in his final hours, based on the firm hope that God has welcomed him into his glory. His earthly death marks the end of a pontificate filled with wisdom, love, and service to the people of God and the entire world.
A tireless witness to the Christian faith, Francis was always a staunch defender of human dignity, inciting commitment to the poorest and most marginalized in society. His life and pontificate were marked by his dedication to peace, justice, and mercy, and his message of universal brotherhood will continue to guide the Church.
The Holy Father died in the midst of a Jubilee Year, dedicated to hope as a profound and transformative force that draws on faith in God and sustains us in difficult moments. At this hour, we make his words our own, which take on a deeper meaning today: “Hope is a virtue that grows along the way, through difficulties and adversity. It is not a naive hope, but a hope born from the heart of faith, because we know that the Lord never abandons us. Hope is not just positive thinking, but an inner strength that enables us to walk in the midst of darkness, trusting that in the end, God’s love will always prevail.”
We also invite all the faithful of our diocese to join in prayer for the eternal repose of Pope Francis. May his example of humility and love for humanity inspire each of us to live our faith with greater authenticity and generosity.
The diocese requests, in particular, parish priests and those in charge of shrines and hermitages, to ring the bells on this day of mourning, as is customary and if they deem it appropriate, as a sign of respect and affection for the death of the Pontiff. This morning, as soon as the news was announced, the Holy Cathedral of the Savior broke the silence of dawn with its bells, which rang out in mourning for a long time. The Basilica of the Saint is also doing the same, every hour until noon.
As the funeral rites begin, as the universal Church, we join in communion with the College of Cardinals and all the People of God to pay tribute to this great servant of Christ. In a few days, we will announce a Eucharist for his eternal rest.
May the Lord, who called him into his presence, receive him in his eternal glory. May Pope Francis, whom we have known as our shepherd and guide, continue to intercede for us before the throne of God.
