Reverend Joseph E. Kurtz, D.D. Bishop | Archdiocese of Louisville

Archbishop Shelton J. Fabre, speaking at the Cathedral of the Assumption on April 21, addressed the death of Pope Francis, who passed away at the age of 88. The archbishop spoke of his struggle to accept the pope's death, a sentiment he believes is shared by Catholics in Louisville and around the world.

Archbishop Fabre noted the difficulty of facing a loved one's passing, stating, "It’s one thing to know they are close to death, but it’s a different reality when the Lord calls them home." He expressed that this feeling resonates with Catholics globally.

In his remarks, the archbishop highlighted Pope Francis as a figure of hope, grounded in Christ, noting, "His hope was rooted in Christ." He emphasized the Catholic belief that Jesus is present in every situation. "I’m positive the Lord was with Pope Francis" at the time of his death, Archbishop Fabre said, adding, "The bonds that unite us in life do not unravel in death."

Archbishop Fabre remembered Pope Francis as a "great pastor" with writings characterized by a pastoral approach akin to the Good Shepherd. He recalled the warmth felt during personal encounters with the pontiff, describing him as "a man of great warmth, a man of humor, a man who clearly knew who he was, and very humble."

The archbishop also spoke of the collegial spirit he felt with Pope Francis, saying the pope understood the responsibility borne by those in leadership roles. Regarding the pope's legacy, Archbishop Fabre stated, "He encouraged us to encounter one another and discover the gift" in each other, drawing non-Catholics to him. He expressed a hope that the next pope will continue to be "a voice for the voiceless and remember the marginalized."

Archbishop Fabre concluded by saying that whoever is chosen as the next pope will have his support.