News Release: On the Death of Pope Francis

(Lansing, Mich.) — Michigan Catholic Conference president and CEO Paul Long offered the following reflection regarding the death of Pope Francis:

“We join in prayer with the bishops in Michigan, and with Catholics all around the world, asking our Blessed Mother to intercede for the soul of Pope Francis to enter into the glory of eternal life with our Lord Jesus Christ.

“Reflecting on the 12-year pontificate of Pope Francis, we are grateful for the Holy Father’s tireless voice of concern and advocacy for marginalized people across the world and in our communities. The pope encouraged not only Catholics but all people of goodwill to empathize more deeply, to look further into others’ hearts and understand their worries, their difficulties, and their joys.

“Today the world lost a leader and champion for the dignity of every single person, a pastor at heart who called for humankind to reject a throwaway culture that devalues and discards any perceived imperfection of human life. From the chair of Saint Peter, Pope Francis amplified Church teaching for elected leaders and those in positions of power to protect the elderly, the unborn, and the many migrants and refugees searching for a life free from violence and fear.

“We pray that the soul of Pope Francis will greet his predecessors and family, the Saints and angels, and all those he loves in our Father’s heavenly home. May perpetual light shine upon him O Lord, and may he rest in the glory and perfect happiness of eternal peace.”

Michigan Catholic Conference is the official public policy voice of the Catholic Church in this state.

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