Bishop Thomas John Paprocki | Diocese of Springfield

Bishop Thomas John Paprocki, from the Diocese of Springfield in Illinois, released a statement following the death of Pope Francis. Bishop Paprocki recognized the late pope's role in exemplifying love, notably reflected in his final Encyclical Letter. Issued on October 24, 2024, the letter, "He loved us," draws from Saint Paul’s Letter to the Romans.

Bishop Paprocki remarked on Pope Francis's daily ministry, saying, “Pope Francis challenged the world daily through his words and actions that we are all called to something greater, not of this world, but the next.” He emphasized that Pope Francis's life encouraged others to live authentically Catholic lives, showing empathy, compassion, and charity toward others. Bishop Paprocki also noted the pope's dedication to humility, selflessness, and the care of marginalized individuals.

Reflecting on a past encounter, Bishop Paprocki shared his experience meeting Pope Francis in Vatican City in 2019 during his ad limina visit. He stated, “I was struck by his joy. He spoke to me and my brother bishops not as a boss, but as a fellow ‘apostle,’ tasked with the same mission all priests have – to passionately advance our faith.”

Bishop Paprocki highlighted a memorable scene from 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic, where Pope Francis prayed before St. Peter’s Basilica, “holding up the Blessed Sacrament during his ‘Urbi et Orbi’ (To the City and the World) blessing.” The bishop remarked on the significance of this act, where Pope Francis imparted the message of turning to God amidst worldly adversities.

Amid the mourning, Bishop Paprocki concluded his statement by noting the unity in prayer among people of faith for Pope Francis and the Church. He expressed hope that the Holy Spirit would guide the upcoming conclave in selecting Francis's successor.

"Today, our church mourns and prays," Bishop Paprocki started, highlighting the community's collective sense of loss and anticipation of the future.