Archbishop Allen Vigneron | Archdiocese of Detriot

It was announced that Pope Francis has passed away, leaving behind a significant influence on the Church and the world. Archbishop Edward J. Weisenburger expressed his sorrow while acknowledging the late Pope's impact on both the Church and society.

“Our beloved Holy Father, Pope Francis, has died. My heart is heavy as our world has lost a powerful, prophetic, and loving voice,” said Archbishop Weisenburger, highlighting Pope Francis as “a truly great and loving Universal Shepherd.”

Reflecting on Pope Francis’s choice of name, Archbishop Weisenburger noted, “Some people want to know why I wished to be called Francis. For me, Francis of Assisi is the man of poverty, the man of peace, the man who loves and protects creation.” He described these aspects as a lasting influence, emphasizing Pope Francis’s dedication to poverty through simplicity, his advocacy for peace, and his commitment to protecting creation.

Archbishop Weisenburger commended Pope Francis’s “profound witness to how one can overcome temptation to possessions, power, and control,” and his constant call for peace amidst global violence, stating, “the Holy Father’s deepest wounds were revealed in the world’s violence, death, and destruction, all of which he cried out against.”

In light of climate change and environmental issues, he noted Pope Francis’s role in showing authentic discipleship through stewardship of creation. By being a caretaker rather than an owner, Pope Francis’s example resonated especially with younger generations.

The Archbishop recalled one of Pope Francis’s quotes for reflection: “A little mercy makes the world less cold and more just.”

Faithful followers are requested to “pray one rosary for the gentle repose of the soul of our Holy Father or to participate in a memorial Mass for Pope Francis.” He also urged prayers for Church Cardinals to aid in the election of a new Pope.

Concluding, he offered a prayer: “Eternal rest grant unto him O Lord and let perpetual light shine upon him. May his soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.”